To help prevent and abate graffiti, the City has adopted Code Chapter 9.20, Injuring Property, and Code Chapter 9.22, Graffiti. Chapter 9.20 provides a structure to issue a misdemeanor to parties found responsible, while Chapter 9.22 provides a procedure for removal, citation, and abatement, as needed.
The most effective defense against graffiti is the quick removal of it.
Has your property been tagged?
If you are the victim of graffiti, use this link to file a police report to document criminal damage. Include your property’s address and photos when filing the notice.
You will receive a graffiti warning violation in the mail as part of the process. Be mindful, although you are the victim, you must remove or cover the graffiti within timeframe provided in the notice to avoid abatement by the City. Find helpful tips for removal below.
Want to report graffiti on public or private property?
Use this link to report graffiti that is visible to the public. Include details about the location, including the address if available and a photo when possible.
Graffiti Removal Tips for Property Owners
- Using water and a power washer is the most people and environmentally friendly method. It will often do the trick, but not always. Consider renting a power washer from a local home improvement store if you don’t own one.
- Use a solvent. Select the solvent you will use based on the material the graffiti will be removed from. Some solvents will work well on vinyl siding but not on porous surfaces such as bricks and sidewalks. When using solvents, follow the manufacturer’s written instructions and use the safety precautions provided. Consider doing a test spot first to help you identify if the solvent will cause unwanted damage or discoloration. Use only as much as you need and properly dispose of or store any excess.