Graffiti
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We have a dedicated team who deal with the removal of graffiti, and the removal and enforcement of flyposting in the borough. The team also has a dedicated gum removal service, which removes the mess that chewing/bubble gum leaves on our streets.
We aim to remove racist or offensive graffiti within 20 hours of notification. All other reported incidences of non offensive graffiti must be removed within 12 days.
We are working in partnership with Bournemouth & Poole Youth Offending Team and NTL Communications to tackle graffiti on utility boxes throughout the Borough. Please report incidences to us to ensure its removal.
To assist private property owners we have available for loan free of charge "Community Graffiti Removal Kits" to help tackle graffiiti.
The kits are easy to use and contain a ready packed assortment of products required for all types of graffiti removal. The highly effective but environmentally friendly products allow easy removal of graffiti without the danagerous side effects of hazardous solvents. For further details contact Environmental & Consumer Protection Service.
Alternatively we can provide a free removal service for graffiti on private property subject to certain criteria and a signed disclaimer form from the property owner.
- General conditions include:
The resident or business requesting such work must sign an agreement indemnifying the Council from liability for any damage caused by the removal of the graffiti.
The graffiti must be readily accessible
The area affected must not exceed 4sq metres in size and treatable surfaces are limited to brickwork, concrete, metal or similar
The cost to the Council for the work does not exceed £100.00
Exact colour matches cannot be guaranteed
For full details please contact 01202 261700.
If you find evidence of graffiti on public property please report it to Environmental & Consumer Protection Services.
What is graffiti?
You have probably seen graffiti somewhere in your community. It is the words, colours and shapes drawn or scratched on buildings, fences and other surfaces. It is done without permission and is against the law.
The term graffiti comes from the Greek word ‘graphein’ which means ‘to write’. There are four primary motivating factors for graffiti vandalism: fame, rebellion, self-expression, and power.
Graffiti is a strain on local resources costing Poole Council thousands of pounds a year to remove and prevent. Graffiti decreases an individuals feeling of safety in the community. Areas with graffiti see a decrease in property values and a loss in business growth and tourism. It sends a signal that nobody cares, which attracts other forms of crime and disorder.
Facts:
Prosecutions for graffiti are brought under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Some recent cases have brought fine of hundreds of pounds and young offenders can be given a community service order.
Vandalism and graffiti costs Britain more than £1 billion a year.
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