Graffiti
In 2007, The City Council adopted an ordinance to assist with the abatement or immediate removal of graffiti. Graffiti vandalism contributes substantially to the spread of gang activity, violence, crime and the deterioration of property values in the City. Experience tells us that removing the graffiti as soon as possible helps prevent re-occurrence and the spread of this damage to property.
A written notice will be sent to the property owner requesting cooperation in the removal of graffiti within 3 business days or to contact City Staff. A follow-up inspection will be conducted and if the graffiti is still present, the City will abate the graffiti as weather permits. Criminal prosecution of those responsible will be actively pursued.
If you have any questions concerning graffiti on your property, or its removal, please contact the Inspections Department at (651) 554-3216.
It is recommended that graffiti be removed as soon as possible!
- General Tip: If you want to paint over graffiti, first prepare the surface with a primer such as KILZ, which comes in a spray can or brush form. This will seal the graffiti and keep it from bleeding through the new paint. If the area to be painted is small, use KILZ first, and then spray paint the area with a color that closely matches the original wall. Sometimes you will notice that an entire wall will have to be painted in order to avoid a “patched” look.
- Brick, Cement or Concrete: Use extra strength paint remover. Apply with a wire brush. Some products come with a sprayer. Scrub the area with the wire brush, and allow it to dry. Rinse with a forceful stream of water. This may need to be repeated in order to completely remove the graffiti.
- Stucco: Apply extra strength paint remover. Seal the area with a primer such as KILZ and allow it to dry. Then paint the area with stucco paint. If the area affected is large, you may want to use a sandblaster.
- Aluminum Siding: A product called “GOOF OFF” works well on latex paint. For oilbased paint, it is recommended that you use “KLEAN STRIP” or “STRIP X”, but use it sparingly and carefully.
- Wood: For latex or oil-base painted wood, use KILZ to seal the graffiti and paint the area with a generous amount of paint to completely cover. If the area is stained or varnished, use “KLEAN STRIP” with a sprayer and wipe off with a cloth rag.
- Fiberglass: Use a paint remover such as “KLEAN STRIP” or “STRIP X”. You can also use “GOOF OFF” or carburetor cleaner.
- Glass or Plexiglass: Use carburetor cleaner and a cloth rag.
- Metal: Try carburetor cleaner first. If this doesn’t work, use “KLEAN STRIP” OR “STRIP X”.
These products can be found at hardware stores, paint stores or building supply stores. Most of these graffiti removal products are toxic and must be used with caution following the manufacturer’s directions. It is recommended that you wear protective clothing such as rubber gloves, safety goggles, and an OSHA approved respirator when using these products.
Dispose of empty cans and containers at the Dakota County Eco-Site located at 3365 Dodd Road in Eagan. Phone (651) 905-4520.