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Reporting Graffiti Vandalism
Graffiti vandalism is not only unsightly, it is thought to contribute to a community members’ sense of safety in the community by:
• Giving the impression that there is little care and respect within the community.
• attracting further crime and delinquency to the community.
Graffiti vandalism is said to damage property values, business growth and tourism. Graffiti vandalism is also against the law and, like any other criminal activity, should be reported to the police. It should also be reported to the property owner and the Waitaki District Council at the earliest opportunity–don’t assume that someone else has or will report it! Take action and report graffiti vandalism yourself.
Reporting graffiti vandalism to the police will help local police to identify graffiti hot spots. Graffiti vandalism should also be reported to the owner of the property (if not yourself) and the local council (see contact details below) so the council can work with the property owner to remove the graffiti vandalism.
When reporting graffiti to the police, property owner and local council, be as specific as possible. Make sure you give the address of the property that has been vandalised (i.e. the closest house number, name of the park, street) and provide as much information as possible about the surface type and the size of the graffiti vandalism and take photo’s. Accurate details will aid prompt graffiti removal, which will, in turn, prevent the graffiti vandal from receiving the fame and recognition they desire and prevent further graffiti vandalism.
Reporting to the police
To report graffiti vandalism to the police, please contact the Oamaru Police Station (03) 433 1400 week days between 8.30am and 4.30pm. If you observe the offenders in the act of graffiti vandalism, call 111 immediately and take a mental note of offenders (how many, what were they wearing etc or if you are in a safe place, take a photo).
If you are a victim of graffiti vandalism
If you are a victim of graffiti vandalism, please contact the Oamaru Police Station (03) 433 1400 week days between 8.30am and 4.30pm. Outside of these hours and during the weekend call 111. If you observe the offenders in the act of graffiti vandalism call 111 immediately and take a mental note of offenders (how many, what were they wearing etc or if you are in a safe place take a photo). If you find spray cans, felt pens etc at or near location, don’t touch them and let Police know when you report the incident.
Reporting to the Waitaki District Council
To report graffiti vandalism to the Waitaki District Council, please contact (03) 433 0300, or email service@waitaki.govt.nz
Removing graffiti vandalism 
If your property is subject to graffiti vandalism, don’t accept that the graffiti is there to stay. It is said that graffiti vandalism not only devalues property, but it gives the impression that no one cares about the neighbourhood, which, in turn, creates an open invitation for littering, loitering and further graffiti vandalism.
Research shows that graffiti removal within 24 to 48 hours significantly reduces the chance of graffiti reoccurring. Sometimes removing graffiti within a short timeframe may be difficult, however, it prevents the graffiti vandal from receiving the fame and recognition they desire, and sends a clear message that graffiti won’t last long on your property. Graffiti is also easier to remove before the paint has dried.
Before you start the removal process, you should photograph the graffiti vandalism. Photographs may help police identify the graffiti vandal.
The most effective method for graffiti removal is determined by the amount of graffiti, its location and the vandalised surface, hence, before you start trying to remove the graffiti, you will need to:
1. identify the surface type
2. identify the substance to be removed (e.g. paint or broad-tipped marker)
3. select the removal method.
The chart below recommends specific removal methods for surfaces commonly vandalised by graffiti. In some cases, you may need to try various different removal methods. Test on a small section of the surface and inspect the area for damage before undertaking the full clean. Remember that graffiti can always be removed and your persistence will pay off.
Download the Graffiti Removal Chart (PDF)
The chart is © State of New South Wales through the Attorney General’s Department of NSW
Removal Methods for Difficult Areas
Paint-out
Paint is used to cover over graffiti vandalism on smooth, painted surfaces. It is fairly low cost, easy to apply and a relatively safe product compared to chemical solvents used to remove graffiti vandalism.
When painting out graffiti vandalism be aware of the following issues:
• Avoid a patchwork effect by either correctly matching the old and new paint, or repainting the entire surface;
• Prepare the surface well to reduce “bleed–through” of the graffiti and to ensure a long lasting and
professional finish;
• Ensure that the process is safe and environmentally friendly, including the clean up of brushes and disposal of paint.
Chemical removers
Chemical removers vary, but typically the stronger the solvent, the faster it will dissolve or remove paint. In some cases, stronger solvents may require an increased focus on safety and personal protection. A solvent or cleaner that is poorly matched to a particular construction material, however, may create aesthetically unappealing results and may damage the surface. Successful product selection is critical. When using any chemical remover, keep in mind who will be using the product, the safety precautions to follow, and any training required for the product user. Secure a material safety data sheet (MSDS) from the distributor of any hazardous chemical. The MSDS will show chemical make-up and any health and safety risks associated with use.
Pressure washing
Pressure washing equipment uses water or water in combination with a solvent to remove graffiti from a surface. A solvent may first be applied and then the surface is washed with pressurised water. Sometimes a blasting media, such as baking soda or sand, is used to remove graffiti. While pressure washing is effective, it can wear down or damage the surface being treated.
Preventative Measures
Graffiti coatings
There are two types of protective coatings, sacrificial and non-sacrificial or permanent. Sacrificial coatings are protective, but come off when graffiti vandalism is removed and must be reapplied. Non-sacrificial or permanent anti-graffiti coatings are unaffected by the graffiti removal process and remain on the surface; however they are more hazardous and difficult to apply.
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