WHITTIER : Law Limits Free Removal of Graffiti for Businesses
A new anti-graffiti ordinance requires commercial property owners in Whittier to share the cost of battling graffiti. The ordinance, approved Tuesday by the City Council, requires property owners to pay for graffiti removal after four free cleanups by the city.
The fees range from $30 for graffiti removal that takes 15 to 20 minutes to $130 for cleanups lasting more than an hour. Unpaid fees are attached to property tax bills.
Officials can also waive fees for owners who make a good faith attempt to eradicate the problem. These efforts could include planting vines to cover bare walls, applying graffiti-resistant wall coverings, and improving outdoor lighting and security.
“All we’re asking is for businesses to be cooperative and help us,” said Councilwoman Helen McKenna-Rahder. “We can no longer provide graffiti removal as a free service forever.” The city will continue to provide free graffiti removal to residential areas.
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