Report graffiti and vandalism: help keep Oshawa beautiful
In response to a number of criminal incidents in our city, the City of Oshawa is urging the community to help keep Oshawa clean, green and beautiful.
Recent costly acts of vandalism in our community include:
- damage upwards of $50,000 to the new Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park and Garden of Human Rights;
- removal of plantings from City gardens; and,
- graffiti and property damage in our downtown and various areas within the city.
Damaging or defacing property belonging to another person, business or to public spaces is a criminal offence and is vandalism. Graffiti and tagging without the consent of property owners is an act of vandalism.
In 2022, vandalism on City property resulted in over 500 indents, including 50 significant incidents. This does not include damage to private properties, including small businesses.
In addition to the costs of cleanup and repairs, vandalism affects the ability to enjoy our trails, parks and green spaces. Vandalism to playground equipment, sports amenities and outdoor features prevents children and visitors from using our amazing neighbourhood parks. Vandalism and graffiti on private properties incurs costs to businesses and property owners and negatively influences visual curb appeal.
Vandalism and graffiti (tagging) impacts everyone as it:
- incurs costs and time to clean up;
- contributes to increases in other forms of criminal activity;
- affects our sense of security;
- impacts our image and makes our city less attractive to visitors, business and investment; and
- affects pride in our city.
If you see it, report it! We are calling on community members to help keep our city cleaner and safer by reporting accordingly.
Service Oshawa
Report graffiti and other non-emergency issues on City property (e.g. loitering, camping, garbage/overflowing garbage cans) to Service Oshawa.
Call: 905-436-3311
Online: file a report online
Durham Regional Police Service
Report vandalism to DRPS.
Call: 9-1-1 for emergencies and serious crimes in progress
Call: 905-579-1520 or visit DRPS.ca and report a crime online for non-emergency police matters.
Durham Regional Crime Stoppers
Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers.
Call: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
Online: visit durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca