Graffiti resources

How do I report graffiti in Clackamas County?

• Call our non-emergency line at 503-655-8211 to report graffiti on your property
• Call 911 to report crimes in-progress
• Report graffiti online using our Tip Line (select "Gangs/Graffiti")
• mail graffiti location (with photo) to graffiti@clackamas.us
• Text graffiti location (with photo) to 971-337-7769

What is graffiti?

Graffiti is the words, colors, and shapes drawn or scratched on buildings, overpasses, train cars, desks, and other surfaces. It's done without permission and it's against the law. The FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program considers graffiti vandalism.

The term graffiti comes from the Greek word graphein , which means "to write." Graffiti today ranges from simple, one-color monikers -- called "tags" -- to complex compositions of several colors repeated on many surfaces.

Graffiti can be categorized into four basic types:

1. Tagger
   The most common type of graffiti in the metro region. Tagger graffiti may be simple line-letters, or elaborate, colorful designs. The tag is the writer's logo, his/her stylized personal signature, or "moniker." It is often done with marker, spray paint or other type implement. Tagger graffiti is about personal "fame."
2. Gang
   Meant to create a sense of intimidation and fear within a neighborhood. Gang members use graffiti to mark their territory or turf, declare their allegiance to the gang, advertise a gang's status or power, and to challenge rivals.
3. Communicative
   Often political or protest related.  It is a message such as "Peace", "Stop the War", etc.
4. Hate
   The making of any offensive slogans, or symbols towards a person's race, color, religion, ethnicity, culture, or sexual orientation.

Graffiti Prevention Tips