How To Deter Tagging

Tagging affects neighbourhoods whenever it is not promptly removed. Taggers love to add their mark to existing graffiti. If your property is continuously being hit there are some steps that you can take to prevent tagging:

• Plant a hedge, some shrubs or a hanging plant in front of a fence or wall
• Increase visibility at night by installing lighting. Lights with motion sensors are a popular choice as they only activate when a person approaches
• Install video surveillance cameras. The possibility of being caught on film is a good deterant
• Tagging is wilful damage and therefore a crime. If you see any suspicious activity, report it to the Police. Take a note of the car license plate if possible
• If you know someone involved in graffiti crime inform your local Police
• Remove graffiti as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours. One tag tends to attract other tags
• Form or join your local Neighbourhood Watch Group and become involved in local initiatives to protect areas targeted by taggers
• Consider painting a mural on a communal area being targeted - it has worked to deter graffiti in other areas and could become a community project. Your local community board may be able to help and advise you regarding this option
• Protect exposed walls and fences with a graffiti protection product. Check the Yellow Pages for suppliers.