Graffiti Removal
The Graffiti Removal Program was created in 2008 to provide a comprehensive plan to address graffiti in a coordinated, citywide effort through prevention, intervention and enforcement. The City cannot succeed at eliminating graffiti without your help.
Immediate removal within 24-48 hours is the key to successful graffiti prevention. Property owners can take back their neighborhoods by helping to clean up graffiti. Any effort to remove graffiti makes a big difference. Remove graffiti immediately and work with your neighbors to ensure your neighborhood remains clean.
If you have been the victim of graffiti vandalism, you may complete a case report the online reporting system. To access the online reporting system, click here and click on the link "File an online police report".
Community Pride Day - September 18, 2010
On September 18, 2010, we will have a Community Pride Day to wipe out graffiti in Kent. Starting at 8am at Town Square Plaza, community members are invited to form teams of 6-8 people to help clean up our community. Graffiti will be wiped out by 12:00pm so you can continue on with your Saturday. And, Kent School high schoolers - this counts towards your required community service!
September 18th Community Pride Day Brochure & Registration (2.39MB PDF)
Help With Graffiti Removal
We understand that you are a vandalism victim when graffiti lands on your property. To help property owners, a team of volunteers can assist you with graffiti removal.
In order to participate in this program, you must complete a release form that gives volunteers permission to paint over graffiti on your property. This form must be completed by the property or business owner. Once it is completed, submit it via fax or mail to the contact information on the form and it will remain on file with the graffiti removal program. It is not necessary to complete another form.
Property Release Form for Graffiti Removal (17KB PDF)
Graffiti removal methods.
Tips on painting over graffiti.
If you see graffiti in progress, call 911. If you spot graffiti in your neighborhood, report it by calling (253) 856-GRAF (4723).
It is all of our responsibility to keep our community free from graffiti. If you have questions or suggestions for the graffiti removal program, contact Sara Wood at 253-856-5851 or e-mail.
Graffiti Vandalism
Graffiti vandalism is a crime. It is categorized under malicious mischief. The punishment is dependent upon the dollar amount in damage that is done.
- Under $50 - Maximum 90 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine.
- Over $50 - Maximum one year in jail and/or $5,000 fine.
Do You Know a Tagger?
Do you suspect someone is tagging graffiti? Most of the time, there are "signs". Youth experiment by "tagging" personal items such as backpacks, notebooks, even bedroom walls. If you see "tagging" on someone's personal belongings, chances are, the tagging is landing on other property too.
Signs someone you know may be "tagging" (1.27MB PDF)