Duarte : New Anti-Graffiti Law OKd
Following the lead of the County Board of Supervisors, Duarte City Council members approved an ordinance Tuesday that requires merchants to keep spray-paint and markers used for graffiti out of the reach of minors.
The ordinance, which takes effect in 30 days, is in addition to a city law prohibiting store owners from selling aerosol spray-paint and marker pens to minors unless they are accompanied by a guardian.
City officials say the ordinance is identical to one approved several months ago by county supervisors. With a population of 21,000, Duarte spends about $40,000 a year to pay a contractor to clean up graffiti marks by either painting over them or removing them with a sandblaster.
Merchants who violate the ordinance face a maximum fine of $500 and up to six months in County Jail.
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