Washington, D.C. Local Guide

Get to Know Washington, D.C.

A practical guide to settling in, finding District services and caring for a home in Washington, D.C. Confirm requirements for your exact property and circumstances with the responsible agency.

The U.S. Capitol, National Mall and Washington Monument beneath a cloudy sky, viewed from the Library of Congress — The U.S. Capitol and Washington skyline, July 2024 (official website, opens in a new tab)Photo: Shawn Miller / Library of Congress

Washington, D.C. is both the nation’s capital and a place of neighborhoods, parks, markets and daily community life. The Residence Act of 1790 set the new capital in motion, and Congress first met here in 1800. The Architect of the Capitol’s history (opens in a new tab) traces those beginnings. Pierre L’Enfant’s 1791 plan (opens in a new tab) shaped the avenues and public spaces that remain central to the city’s layout.

The District’s story also includes slavery, abolition and the work of generations of residents who built its communities. DC’s Emancipation history (opens in a new tab) explains the local struggle and the law that ended slavery here on April 16, 1862. Explore the places below for both national institutions and everyday neighborhood experiences, then use District agencies rather than neighboring county offices for a DC home.

Guide Topics

Use these links to reach the guide’s individual pages.

Find the Right Office Find Property Records and Tax Bills Find Tax Information and Relief Plan a Renovation Understand Permits and Inspections Set Up Utilities Internet Access Recycling and Household Waste Repair and Housing Assistance Check a Contractor Enjoy the Area Your Settling In Checklist Settling In Owning & Improving a Home Time Outdoors History & Culture Libraries & Community

General information to help you find the right starting point. Requirements, eligibility, service areas, and application processes can change. Confirm details with the office or provider serving your exact address. Official links open in a new tab. Found a broken link or a changed office? Contact LizyTylerCo and include “Washington, D.C. Guide,” the link name, and what happened. Return to All Resources.