GRAFFITI PROGRAM - Our Initiative

Knowing that graffiti adversely affects public perception, architectural significance and the general quality of life in the French Quarter, the FQBA has stepped up to initiate a community, business and citizen-based action plan to eradicate graffiti from the Vieux Carre. Partners in this initiative are resident groups French Quarter Citizens and Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents & Associates, Inc. "World's Best Graffiti Removal System" has proven effective and is accepted by the Vieux Carre Commission (VCC).

Removal Methods
First, try using soap and water and a soft brush. If this does not work, use a VCC approved removal product that is appropriate for the surface. The "World's best graffiti removal system" has been tested and determined safe on historical buildings, a permit is not required for small jobs. In many instances, you can use a graffiti removal product rather than paint.

NOTE:
PERMIT REQUIRED
You must have a permit from the Vieux Carre Commission Office to use chemicals or paint to remove graffiti. Applications for permits can be picked up in person at 334 Royal Street or downloaded off of:
http://www.cityofno.com/portal.aspx

WHAT IS GRAFFITI?

Graffiti is writing, drawings or symbols applied to any surface without the permission of the owner. To create graffiti, vandals use a variety of materials such as automotive car paint, spray paint, crayons and permanent ink. Vandals also etch surfaces as another way to destroy property.

Art or Graffiti?

The difference between art and graffiti is that art is done on property with permission of the property owner. Art is a creative and productive form of expression, whereas graffiti is a crime.

Why should I care about graffiti?

Graffiti is an act of vandalism. Not only is it unattractive, but it also lowers property values and encourages other types of crime in neighborhoods. By promptly removing graffiti, property owners can send a message to the people responsible for graffiti.

GRAFFITI PREVENTION TIPS

1. Maintain upkeep. An exterior appearance that suggests apathy and neglect attracts vandals.

2. Remove quickly. Studies show that removal within 24 to 48 hours results in a nearly zero rate of reoccurrence.

3. Control access.

• Add or improve outside lighting to promote natural surveillance.
• Limit access to roofs by moving dumpsters away from walls and covering drain pipes.
• Incorporate shrubs, thorny plants, and vines to restrict vandal access.

4. Step up security.

• Employ graffiti resistant materials or coatings on a chronically hit wall.
• Do not allow a "legal wall," or an area that permits graffiti, at your business; they are largely ineffective and may draw more graffiti vandals to the area.
• Organize a "Business Watch" with nearby merchants to keep tabs on a business area.
• Install some type of security camera.
• Employ security personnel to monitor property.

5. Work with the community. 

• Inform VC-GAP and the city when graffiti appears on your property.
• Refrain from using graffiti images in ads or promoting graffiti in any way.
• Print graffiti prevention messages on bags, sales flyers, tray liners, book covers, calendars, and other promotional
  items.

JOIN THE FIGHT!

Step 1: Record

If you see a graffiti crime in progress, please contact the New Orleans Police Department immediately at 504-822-1111. Please provide a complete description of the perpetrators and/or vehicles involved, including license plate numbers. Photograph the graffiti using a color camera (digital).

NEVER APPROACH OR CONFRONT THE VANDALS YOURSELF.

Step 2: Report

Graffiti vandalism is a crime. Report graffiti to New Orleans Crime Stoppers at crimestoppersgno.org or call the non-emergency number at 504-822-1111. Upload a photo of the tagging. Please keep copies of each photograph for your personal records. These photographs help the police identify local graffiti hot spots.

Step 3: Remove

Property and business owners understand that promptly removing graffiti reduces the chances of recurrence. Also, the sooner you remove graffiti, the easier it is to clean the damaged surface.