Graffiti Becoming a Big ProblemCLEARWATER - Code inspectors have seen an increase in the defacement of City of Clearwater traffic signs, signal boxes, mast arms, and property over the past couple of years. The City takes graffiti defacement seriously and enforces codes to help ensure a safe, pleasant environment. Areas that become blighted with graffiti, debris, and overgrowth become more susceptible to crime. Graffiti is monitored and tracked by the City's Code Compliance Team, Solid Waste & General Services Department, and the Police Team. While the City takes the initiative to clean or replace the damaged property in a timely manner, this costs the City of Clearwater - the taxpayers - both time and money. In order to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, street signs must be clear and legible to ensure the safe flow of traffic. Graffiti makes signs hard to read and could cause dangerous vehicle accidents. It is not just the taxpayers who suffer from graffiti: it is your neighbors, your friends, your families. Graffiti ruins the ambiance of our neighborhoods. For those who feel they are expressing themselves artistically, please do so in a responsible manner. Think twice before destroying City property. Defacing any traffic control device is a Class III Felony offense, punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. In order to keep Clearwater a clean, safe place to live, prompt removal is required. Assistance is available for those properties defaced by graffiti. If you see signs that need repair due to graffiti damage, please call (727) 562-4952 or (727) 562-4776. If you see graffiti defacement in the public rights-of-way such as along sea walls or city structures, contact Public Services for removal at (727) 562-4950.
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