Graffitti Reduction

Graffiti Reduction Program:  every summer the DPA hires a full time Graffiti Reduction Coordinator whose job is to help with eradication and education aspect of the graffiti problem in Penticton, to keep the city of Penticton “tag free” and remain a beautiful place to live.

Graffiti breaks down into two components, “tagging” and “street art”:

Tagging – An individual (a tagger) uses a specific style of lettering usually consisting of 3 to 7 letters to create and promote his or her “pen name”.  A tagger will apply his/her pen name without permission onto different blank pieces of property, such as business buildings, utility boxes, street signs, mail drop boxes, and so forth.

Street art – An individual with artistic ability and skill will produce a massive painting or mural onto buildings and walls after getting permission from the owner. Street art is the more positive aspect of graffiti.

The MOST effective way to slow tagging is to completely remove the tag as quickly as possible, preferably within 24-48 hours after the area has been tagged.

If you see graffiti vandals at work, please call the local police at 250.492.4300. If you see pre-existing graffiti, please call local by-law at 250.490.2440. If you have any information about graffiti-related crimes, please call South Okanagan Similkameen Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), text sostips and send info to 274637 (CRIMES), or leave a tip online.

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