Graffiti vandalism, or tagging, is a community issue that can have a huge impact on those living in the area. Graffiti vandalism can lower property values, encourage other types of crime, and often makes a community appear unsafe to live in. When graffiti vandalism is visible in a neighbourhood, it creates the perception that no one cares; as a result, it can attract more vandalism in the area.

A strong community response sends a clear message to those involved that graffiti vandalism will not be tolerated. Ignored graffiti affects not only the occupiers of one property, but the whole community.

Help stamp out graffiti in your neighbourhood

If you see any graffiti on your property, Council-owned property, a business, or a neighbour's property, contact the police on 07 308 5255 to report the crime.

When you report graffiti, please include the following:

• The exact location
• What the graffiti is written on (wooden door, concrete wall, etc)
• What it is written with (spray paint, crayon, etc)
• What colour it is
• If it is obscene or offensive
• Your name
• Your phone number

How to protect your property

Be proactive and take action against graffiti vandalism on your property by removing it as soon as it happens. Rapid removal of graffiti has proven to be the best deterrent to combat graffiti vandalism and sends the message that graffiti will not be tolerated.

If your property has been vandalised with graffiti:

• Remove graffiti as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours
• If you are removing graffiti for the first time, try different methods on a small area first to ensure you are not causing more damage. Try the methods below, in this order:
  • A detergent, such as dishwashing liquid
  • A solvent, such as methylated spirits and turpentine products specifically designed to be a graffiti removal product, paint stripper or oven cleaner
• The chemicals in graffiti removal products can be hazardous, so always follow the safety procedures recommended by the manufacturer. Wear protective clothing, including gloves and a mask. Store out of children’s reach.
• Remove graffiti from unpainted fences or walls by sanding or water blasting.

Remember, a painted fence or wall is easier to keep graffiti-free because any further graffiti can simply be painted straight over. Keep some paint handy to paint over any new graffiti that may appear.

How to deter graffiti vandalism in your community

If your property is continuously being hit, as an individual there are some steps you can take to help stop and manage it:

• Remove graffiti rapidly (within 24 hours) to discourage further attacks on your property
• Paint surfaces a dark colour, as graffiti shows up better on light-coloured surfaces
• Plant shrubbery to make your property less accessible and visually less appealing to vandals
• If possible, divide a large surface area into smaller panels. This will visually reduce a graffiti vandal’s canvas, making it less likely to be vandalised with graffiti
• Increase visibility at night by installing lighting; motion sensors are a popular choice as they only activate when a person approaches
• Join your local Neighbourhood Support group or become involved in community initiatives to help protect and beautify graffiti-prone areas with art work.