Brea Anti-Graffiti Law Includes Fines of $1,000, Possible Jail Time
The city’s anti-graffiti ordinance will take effect Thursday.
The ordinance, unanimously passed by the City Council on July 20, seeks to stop the spread of graffiti vandalism by setting tough penalties for violations and by prohibiting minors from possessing graffiti-marking devices. The law gives police the power to seize such items, cite minors or call their parents.
Stores that sell spray paints and marking pens are required to put the items behind locked display cases. In addition, it is prohibited to possess tagging implements in public places such as parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, recreational facilities and storm drains.
Violaters face six months in jail, pay a $1,000 fine or receive a combination of jail time and fine. Juveniles may be required to do community service, including removal of graffiti for up to 100 hours.
Parents or legal guardians may be liable for the cost of removing graffiti, court costs and attorney’s fees of up to $10,000.
The city has set up a 24-hour hot line to encourage residents to report graffiti vandalism. The number is (714) 671-4465.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
