Graffiti

Graffiti is detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the community in that it promotes a perception in the community that the laws protecting public and private property can be disregarded with impunity. This perception fosters a sense of disrespect of the law that results in an increase in crime; degrades the community and leads to urban blight; is detrimental to property values, business opportunities and the enjoyment of life; is inconsistent with the City's property maintenance goals and aesthetic standards; and results in additional graffiti and in other properties becoming the target of graffiti unless it is quickly removed from public and private property.

Graffiti Removal on Public Property

The City’s Maintenance Department is out on the streets every day, removing graffiti from public property and right-of-ways. You can work with the City by reporting graffiti. When reporting graffiti, it is helpful in expediting removal if the following detailed information is provided, the specific location including address, intersection, or major cross streets; type of graffiti such as marker or paint; and surface where graffiti is located such as block wall, fence, sign, or painted curb. There are three methods available to make reporting graffiti convenient: 

  1. Using Request Tracker, Graffiti Removal Online Request on the City's website
  2. Call City Hall (562) 865-6262 during business hours
  3. Call the Graffiti Hotline at (888) 504-4057 after hours

Graffiti Removal on Private Property Pilot Program

The City of Artesia has developed an innovative pilot program to control the modern blight of graffiti. While it is the property owners responsibility to remove graffiti, on June 10, 2019 City Council approved the Graffiti Removal Pilot Program, to assist property owners. The Graffiti Removal Private Property Pilot Program provides graffiti removal materials to homeowners in Artesia whose homes are frequently subject to tagging in order to help them keep their properties clean and the City beautiful. 

Homeowners can apply to receive either graffiti removal materials, or to receive one of three standard paint colors (white, grey or tan) to paint over the graffiti, at no cost. To receive supplies, residents need to fill out a simple download an application form here or to fill out a hard copy, available at City Hall, Artesia Park, or AJ Padelford Park. Property owners receive free paint, in exchange for their agreement to remove graffiti on their property within 72 hours. 

Together, we can work together to keep Artesia looking great!