Graffiti Prevention: Tips for Businesses
Graffiti contributes to reduced retail sales, a decline in property values, and citizen fear. A business littered with graffiti is less likely to be patronized. Citizens feel less safe and secure entering a storefront where graffiti is present. The following are steps to take in the prevention of graffiti:
- Ongoing upkeep. Rapid removal.
- Incorporate shrubs, thorny plants, and vines to restrict vandal access.
- Add or improve lighting around the building to promote natural surveillance.
- Use fences, controlled entrances and exits, and other barriers that discourage through traffic.
- Limit access to roofs by moving dumpsters away from walls and covering drainpipes to prevent vandals from scaling them.
- Organize a “Business Watch” with nearby merchants to keep tabs on a business area. Businesses may want to employ security personnel to monitor property.
- Employ graffiti-resistant materials or coatings on a wall that’s constantly hit with graffiti.
- Refrain from using graffiti images in ads or promoting graffiti in any way.
- Print graffiti prevention messages on bags, sales flyers, tray liners, book covers, calendars, and other promotional items.
Information reprinted with permission from Graffiti Hurts® at www.graffitihurts.org, a program of Keep America Beautiful, Inc.
