Graffiti crews remove vandalism 5 days per week. Crews work Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 3:00 pm.
Before graffiti is removed by our graffiti crews, the graffiti image is captured using a smart phone device. The graffiti moniker is identified and logged in the Department database for tracking purposes.
Each graffiti work vehicle is equipped with a trailer mounted mobile pressure washer, paint, chemicals and additional removal tools. City crews are able to use any of the following techniques:
- Pressure Washing
Pressure washing equipment uses a combination of water and a solvent to remove graffiti from surfaces. A solvent is first applied and then the surface is washed with pressurized water. Each vehicle is equipped to recover the water runoff from this removal method.
- Paint Over Methods
Paint is used to cover over graffiti on smooth, painted surfaces. It is low cost and paint is a relatively safe product compared to removing graffiti with some chemical solvents.
- Chemicals and Solvents
This method is frequently used for the removal of graffiti from traffic signs, light poles and utility boxes. Solvent based cleaners are also used to remove adhesives from sticker graffiti. First the sticker and adhesive is scraped away, and the residue is removed with the cleaner.
- Sandblasting
Sandblasting uses Air Resources Board (ARB) approved sand and walnut particles to remove graffiti from concrete surfaces such as light poles, concrete block walls and sidewalks. Sand blasting services are contracted out and utilized for heavy graffiti locations.