New Reno ordinance to be tough on graffiti

Posted: 9/14/2006


The Reno City Council is taking another step to get tough on graffiti, approving an ordinance Wednesday to levy a $250 administrative fine for those convicted of painting graffiti or defacing city-owned properties.

As allowed by state law, the city would be authorized to file civil suits to cover the cost of damaged buildings and other property.

Of the money collected, the city would use 50 percent to support Secret Witness in providing rewards for people who provide information leading to the arrest and conviction of graffiti vandals and the other half for removing graffiti.

In 2004, city of Reno spent $400,000 to clean up graffiti. The city already has launched a no tolerance campaign with cleaning up graffiti within 48 hours of its appearance and increasing surveillance efforts.