Graffiti Program

• Maintain upkeep. An exterior appearance that suggests apathy and neglect attracts vandals.
• Remove quickly. Studies show that removal within 24 to 48 hours results in a nearly zero rate of reoccurrence.

• 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.

• Step up security.

• Employ graffiti resistant materials or coatings on a chronically hit wall.
• Organize a "Business Watch" with nearby merchants to keep tabs on a business area.
• Install a security camera.
• Employ security personnel to monitor property.

• 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.

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.

First, try using soap and water and a soft brush. If this does not work, use a Vieux Carre Commission 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.

* PERMIT REQUIRED*
You must have a permit from the Vieux Carre Commission Office to use chemicals or paint to remove graffiti.

Volunteer for the next Graffiti Cleanup event!
Check our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for the next Graffiti Cleanup date.

All registrants must complete the following online registration form and volunteer agreement form.
Volunteers must be over the age of 15 or accompanied by an adult.

NOTE: Please bring a signed agreement on the date of the Graffiti Cleanup to the volunteer check-in to receive your volunteer t-shirt (while supplies last.) Volunteers should wear weather appropriate work clothes and comfortable shoes. Volunteers are responsible for their own parking and will be treated to lunch following the cleanup.

View and Print agreement form » (PDF)

Financial support and product donations are much appreciated. Products such as paint brushes, safety goggles, gloves, nylon brushes, toweling clothes and other materials are needed for graffiti abatement.

To donate call the FQBA office at 504-309-1423