Just 48 square miles in size, San Francisco offers all the convenience, opportunities and challenges of compact living: on the one hand, residents can walk or bike to work, take their dog for a run at the community park, or join with their neighbors in improving the neighborhood through group action; on the other hand, city dwellers sometimes have to deal with blocked driveways, noise and traffic snarls.

Can you do something to optimize the benefits and minimize the drawbacks? Yes, and progress starts on your own block. In this section, we'll direct you toward the resources you need to make your neighborhood safer, cleaner and more enjoyable. Remember: your quality of life and the value of your home remain tied to the condition of the surrounding area. As a homeowner you will want to pay attention to local issues like graffiti, crime, and pedestrian safety. Keep your eyes open: maybe your street could use residential permit parking; maybe the vacant lot at the corner needs to be cleaned up. Perhaps, too, you would like to learn more about the history and architecture of your area, volunteer at the public school or get involved in the community garden down the street. Whatever the interest or problem, we'll guide you to the tools you need to play an active role in your neighborhood.