(A) The purpose of this subchapter is to provide a program for removal of graffiti from walls and structures on both public and private property and to provide regulations designed to prevent and control the further spread of graffiti in the city. The increase of graffiti on both public and private buildings, structures and places is creating a condition of blight within the city which results in a deterioration of property and business values for adjacent and surrounding properties all to the detriment of the city. Allowing graffiti to remain increases the likelihood of additional graffiti being placed on the property. Graffiti constitutes not only unattractive blight but also increases the likelihood of criminal activity when left in place.
(B) The City Council finds and determines that graffiti is obnoxious and a public nuisance which must be abated so as to avoid the detrimental impact of such graffiti on the city and to prevent the further spread of graffiti.
(C) The City Council further finds that substantial amounts of graffiti are created by minors; that parents and guardians should be made responsible for the avoidance and removal of graffiti created by minors; and that penalties and requirements are needed to ensure that parents exercise appropriate control over and assume responsibility for the actions of minors under their control. While the property is a victim of the graffiti, where the responsible party fails to correct the defacing graffiti, it is always the duty of the property owner to remove graffiti as soon as reasonably possible.
(Ord. 639-C.S., passed 2-6-01)