Graffiti

Graffiti

Graffiti is defined as unauthorised writing, drawing or scratches that are scribed, painted or engraved on walls or other surfaces. 

Graffiti is general placed into two categories:

Offensive graffiti

Whilst there is no legal definition of ‘offensive’ we determine this as words or images that are offensive, racist, threatening, political commentary and gang related.

General graffiti

Tags which can be defined as a stylized signature or logo, artistic drawings, poetry or other non-offensive writing and drawing.

We are responsible for removing graffiti from council owned property including play parks and street furniture and aim to remove any offensive graffiti within 24 hours.

The responsibility for removing graffiti on private property is with the owner of that property, although the council may be able to assist if the graffiti is offensive. Private property includes street furniture owned by utility companies. If you are not sure who owns a utility box and there is no contact details on the box, you will find that most boxes have a manhole cover in front of them that will show the name of the company that owns the box. Key contacts for reporting graffiti:

BT/Open Reach cabinets and equipment: 0800 023 2023 and select option1 or via their website https://www.openreach.com/help-and-support/damage-health-and-safety

Post Boxes: Email Royal Mail postbox.appearance@royalmailpfs.com providing the specific address of the post box and if possible the post box number which should be shown on the collection times plate along with a photograph of the graffiti.

Railway stations, bridges and land beside railways: Contact Network Rail at https://www.networkrail.co.uk/our-work/living-by-the-railway/graffiti-removal/

Report graffiti on council property: Report graffiti online or you can call us on 0115 981 9911