Once again taking a crack at Baltimore’s perennial problem with sidewalk trash, filthy alleys and overgrown lots, “Neighborhood Clean Sweep” will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26.

The city usually requires neighborhoods to register 30 days before the event, but an exception is being made this year. But community leaders need to call 311 as soon as possible to register.

Residents have an added incentive to get involved this year, according to the Department of Public Works.

Stormwater Credits

With the Maryland Stormwater Fee having gone into effect, people participating in organized cleanups, such as the Oct. 26 event, can receive credits to reduce their stormwater charge.

It’s not a whole lot. Residents with eight hours of volunteer participation (over a year) can earn $10 in credit. Other activities, such as tree planting and rainwater harvesting, can earn from $3 to $24 of additional credit.

A typical city and county resident can expect $60 to $120 a year in stormwater fees depending on the square footage of their property. Credit applications can be found here.

For the Oct. 26 cleanup, free garbage bags will be available to registered communities at 111 Kane Street (Oct. 21-25, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and 2840 Sisson Street (Oct. 21-25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Call 311 for more information or to sign up.