Port Coquitlam guarantees graffiti removal within 48 hours on public property
The city launched a new service standard promising rapid response to vandalism reports, aiming to prevent neighbourhoods from appearing neglected.
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Port Coquitlam has launched a graffiti removal guarantee promising that vandalism reported on city-owned public property will be removed within 24 to 48 hours.
Mayor Brad West announced the service standard as part of the municipality's broader efforts to keep public spaces clean and welcoming. Residents can submit reports online, and the city will dispatch crews to address the damage within the promised timeframe.
West said the initiative reflects the view that cleanliness and appearance of public spaces influence civic pride and perceptions of community safety. The city aims to prevent graffiti from lingering visibly, which can make neighbourhoods appear neglected and potentially encourage further vandalism.
The program aligns with Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), which uses design, appearance, and ongoing management of public spaces to discourage crime and strengthen public sense of safety. Timely maintenance is one of CPTED's core principles. According to the city's website, when graffiti is removed within 72 hours, it is less likely to reappear at the same location.
Private property owners remain responsible for removing graffiti on their own surfaces. Port Coquitlam's Community Policing provides coupons to private owners for discounted paint and supplies through Sherwin-Williams Paints.
At a glance
How quickly will Port Coquitlam remove graffiti from public property?
Port Coquitlam guarantees removal within 24 to 48 hours of a vandalism report on city-owned public property.
How can residents report graffiti in Port Coquitlam?
Residents can submit graffiti reports online, and the city will dispatch crews to address the damage within the promised timeframe.
What help is available to private property owners with graffiti in Port Coquitlam?
Port Coquitlam's Community Policing provides coupons to private property owners for discounted paint and supplies through Sherwin-Williams Paints, since private owners are responsible for removing graffiti on their own surfaces.
