Graffiti

Graffiti relates to any drawings, tags, pictures, messages, or scribbles that are painted, written, or carved on walls, street furniture and other surfaces.

We currently remove graffiti from council-owned property including litter bins, council houses and playgrounds. 

It is the responsibility of the owner of the land or surface to remove graffiti but we can assist with the removal of offensive graffiti.

Graffiti can be a problem as it is:

• an indication of a neglected neighbourhood and is associated with crime, eg anti-social behaviour. It also discourages people from visiting the area
• illegal - graffiti is vandalism and as such a criminal act which can result in the offender being arrested
• costly to remove
• associated with other crimes - areas with graffiti can attract other crimes in the area and heighten the fear of crime

Those who cause graffiti can be issued with Community Protection Warnings, Notices or issued with Fixed Penalty Notices of £100. 

If the offence is serious or repeated, the offender can be prosecuted. This can result in a fine of up to £5000. The offender can also face the imposition of a Criminal Behaviour Order, which if breached can result in a prison sentence. Offenders may also be required to remove the graffiti.

Town or parish councils may wish to consider the use of a graffiti wall where graffiti is permitted, in existing open spaces and parks. This can be helpful in reducing the occurrence of graffiti elsewhere.

If you have any information on the identity of graffiti vandals in your area you can give any information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please call 0845 601 1113 to report graffiti on road signs and lamp posts.

Last updated 07 February 2024