You can report graffiti on public property in COlumbus by calling the 311 Service Center at (614) 645-3111 or by submitting a service request via 311.columbus.gov

From what types of surfaces do Graffiti Blasters remove graffiti?

Graffiti Blasters remove graffiti from all public property, porous and non-porous surfaces. Here’s a list of properties: City of Columbus buildings, bridge structures, sidewalks, traffic signs, control boxes, light poles, utility poles, parking meters, refuse containers.

How quickly should I try to remove the graffiti?

The longer the graffiti is on the surface, the more likely it is to return, so you should remove it as soon as possible, within 2 days is best, waiting more than a week increases the chances of recurrence.

What method should I use to remove the graffiti?

Since the method with which you use to remove the graffiti will affect the chances of its return, you should use the method that most effectively returns the surface to its natural state. 

How can I get rid of graffiti on a painted surface?

There are 2 ways to attempt to remove this graffiti. The first is to try a non-hazardous vandal or graffiti mark remover. There are a number of products available to do this that can be purchased from hardware stores, janitorial suppliers, or chemical suppliers. The second way is to paint over the graffiti. The best procedure is to prime, or coat, the graffiti first with a stain block (shellac) and then paint the wall from corner to corner. If you want more information or advice, please call the Keep Columbus Beautiful Program at (614) 645-8027.

Every time I paint out the graffiti, it comes back. Why should I bother continuing to paint out the graffiti?

The key is to break this cycle by painting it out immediately. If left, the graffiti vandals assume that their tags will stay up as long the next time, which is why they will return to the same site. When the vandals realize their graffiti will not stay up, they become discouraged from further tagging.

How can I remove graffiti from brick or unpainted concrete?

There are a couple of different ways in which to remove graffiti from brick or unpainted concrete. There are a variety of biodegradable paint strippers that work well. If this is not successful, then you may try pressure washing. If all else fails, you may try hiring a contractor to remove the graffiti by way of soda blasting. This is an environmentally safe and effective way to restore the surface to its natural state. Go to the Tips page for more information on these types of removal.

I scrubbed off the graffiti from my brick wall. However, I couldn’t get it all off. Now there’s more graffiti. Why won’t they leave me alone?

It’s important to remove all visible traces of graffiti from unpainted surfaces. Any remaining "ghosting" of a tag will act as a visual cue to the taggers. Graffiti should always be completely removed.

Is there anything else I can do to further prevent graffiti vandalism?

Lighting: Make sure that lighting is adequate around the property, especially at night.

Exposed concrete retaining walls: Consider growing vines or ivy to cover the wall.

Paint color: Try darker colors. Graffiti doesn't show up well against a dark background. When you paint your property, make sure you have leftover paint for touch-up.

Block Watch: Consider organizing a neighborhood block watch to get others in your community involved. After all, graffiti in your community affects you all.