Graffiti artists face big fines

Chicago,IL,USA

Janice Neumann
Published December 9, 2004

PALOS HEIGHTS -- The City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved an ordinance that will fine graffiti artists $100 to $500. Violators may also have to pay restitution and perform court-ordered community service.

Owners of property with graffiti on it will be required to remove the scribbling within five days of notice from the city, or face a fine ranging from $100 to $500. Gang graffiti, obscenities and defamatory graffiti must be removed or obliterated immediately upon notification.

Also Tuesday, the council approved an increase in demolition fees from $275 to $550, although the fee for demolition of detached garages remains at $275.

Ald. Michael McGrogan, chairman of the License, Permits and Franchises Committee, said the increased fees were needed because of an increasing number of teardowns in the city and to keep in line with the rates of many other municipalities.