The best way to reduce the spread of graffiti is to remove it quickly and learn how to prevent it from returning.

Tips to deter graffiti

As a property owner, there are measures you can take to deter graffiti. They include:

• Plant vines, shrubs or thorny plants to limit access to walls.
• Increase lighting and visibility. Consider motion or sensor lights to draw attention to any movement on your property.
• Move vehicles, dumpsters or other items away from walls and cover pipes to prevent access to the roof or upper levels of a building.
• Consider a graffiti repellent to protect surfaces against graffiti.
• Use fences and other barriers to discourage through traffic.
• Encourage community pride and respect in your neighbourhood and involve youth in community graffiti removal project.
• Consider adding a mural to your property.
• Encourage neighbours to look out for each other. Start up a Neighbourhood Watch program in your neighbourhood.