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Why is Graffiti a Problem?
Who is Affected?
Graffiti is not art; it is vandalism. It is prohibited when done without permission of the property owner. Victims of graffiti tagging feel violated and are left with the responsibility and cost of cleaning up the site. Graffiti causes both the community to look unsafe and people to feel concerned about their personal safety. Areas filled with graffiti are less appealing to those who may be looking to buy or rent property. Property becomes more difficult to sell and values are reduced.
A Sign of Urban Decay
Today, graffiti is a sign of urban decay.  It has become everyone's eyesore. Graffiti generates fear of neighborhood crime and instability. It is costly, destructive, lowers property values and sends a message that people of the community are not concerned about the appearance of their neighborhoods. If not immediately removed, graffiti sends out a message that "nobody cares" about the area. This creates an open invitation for more littering, loitering, and other graffiti. Unfortunately, it may also lead to an increase in other crimes and acts of violence.
The Costs of Graffiti
Studies suggest that graffiti costs Canadian taxpayers $1.4 billion each year on graffiti abatement, education, and enforcement. This amount does not include the millions spent by other public agencies, utility companies, and private property owners to remove graffiti from their properties. Every dollar spent on graffiti removal is a dollar that could be used on other necessary programs.
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