What is Graffiti Vandalism?

Graffiti vandalism is concern for cities around the world. It harms local residents, organizations, businesses and property owners. Graffiti includes inscriptions, slogans or drawings placed on public or private walls or other outdoor surfaces. 

Graffiti is vandalism and a criminal offence when placed on public or private property without the owner's consent. Even if done with permission, it must conform to the City’s Community Standards for acceptable forms of art. Otherwise the property owner may be required to remove the graffiti under Community Standards Bylaw 14600.

If the vandalism is not removed, it can lead to more damage and create an environment in which crime can thrive. Leaving it on your property also wrongly sends the message that vandalism is okay.

Graffiti affects everyone:

• Property owners must spend time and money to clean up the vandalism.
• Discriminatory or hateful messages hurt individuals and identifiable groups.
• Vandalism makes our city less attractive to visitors, business and investment.
• Property damage and petty crime affect our sense of security and pride in our city.

You can help reduce graffiti vandalism where you live. Record, report and remove graffiti vandalism by calling 311 or send an email to 311@edmonton.ca.

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