Mayor Proposes Graffiti Removal Bylaw for Guelph Property Owners
- Tuesday, August 26th, 2025 - 8:37 pm
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- 1 comment
Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie is preparing to bring forward a motion that would require property owners to remove graffiti within a set timeframe or face fines. The proposal comes in response to what Guthrie describes as a noticeable increase in graffiti throughout the city, particularly in the downtown core.
The motion, scheduled to be introduced at an upcoming committee of the whole meeting, directs city staff to draft a bylaw for council’s consideration early next year. If adopted, the bylaw would establish rules for the timely removal of graffiti, penalties for non-compliance, and potential supports for property owners who are frequently affected.
Guthrie noted that graffiti has appeared on buildings along Wyndham Street, vacant downtown properties, Canada Post boxes, utility poles, bridges, and other infrastructure. He said research shows that if graffiti is left unaddressed, it can contribute to further property damage and criminal activity.
The proposed bylaw would not only prohibit graffiti but also require its removal within a specified period. Guthrie has suggested that property owners could be offered resources such as advice on prevention methods, funding for protective measures, or support for murals that may deter vandalism. He also acknowledged that a budget increase may be necessary starting in 2026 to enhance both city-led cleanup efforts and assistance for private owners.
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Questions remain about how the bylaw would distinguish between graffiti and permitted artwork. Guthrie indicated this will be a matter for council discussion, though he suggested permission from the property owner may be the deciding factor. The motion itself would prohibit placing or allowing graffiti on any property without consent.
Guthrie added that when it comes to deciding whether graffiti is offensive, those determinations ultimately fall under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The mayor pointed to a past case involving a painted protest installation on the city-owned McQuillan’s Bridge. While some considered it art, Guthrie stressed that it caused taxpayer expense for removal and was done without permission. Referencing anonymous wanted criminal “Lionel,” whose work has included breaking glass at bus shelters under the label of art, these acts have resulted in thousands of dollars in damage, and such actions would constitute criminal vandalism if the individual responsible were identified.
While Guthrie believes civic pride should motivate property owners to maintain their buildings, he said the bylaw is necessary in cases where action is not being taken. “This is not the type of welcome we want people to experience in Guelph,” he said.
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AlecPurves
There are simple solutions that would be beneficial to the home owners, youth and the City.
If the City is really progressive, and would like to send a message to today’s young people; develop a COPS initiative.
Many young people are struggling to find placements to meet their 40 hour volunteer requirements for high school. Start a volunteer anti-graffiti corp. They need little supervision, build relationships with property owners, and create an atmosphere of civil pride and involvement.
Instead of fining property owners, or wasting more taxpayers dollars on City employee cleanups; allow the opportunity for young people and other community residents to step up and make a difference.