(haipo) – Graffiti was sprayed on a fence on Bethlehem Street in Haifa – a recurring phenomenon that raises questions about the fight against illegal graffiti. How can the phenomenon be addressed and reduced? What does the law say on the subject, and how is the local authority working to prevent and remove unauthorized graffiti?
Just last month (January 25), artwork painted on Shivat Zion Street in the city was sprayed and vandalized, as part of the “Street Crafting” project. These are illegal inscriptions that not only damage the art but also join a broader phenomenon of repeated spraying of graffiti in various places throughout Haifa. This time, as mentioned, the inscriptions were sprayed on Bethlehem Street in the French Carmel.
The residents of the street who contacted the authorities expressed their displeasure at the sight that unfolded before their eyes. According to them, it is not clear why the municipality is not taking action to remove the inscriptions, and why they have to report it again and again. “What, no enforcement? No cameras?”, they ask, expecting to receive an effective response and preventive actions from the municipality.
As is known, spraying graffiti without a permit is considered a criminal offense in Israel, since it is essentially vandalism of property, public or private. According to Article 196 of the Penal Code, which deals with vandalism of real estate, a person who sprays graffiti may face a sentence of up to three years in prison. In certain cases, when the damage is significant or is done out of ideological motivation, the punishment may be increased. The question is, is the law enforced and implemented?
The local authority is responsible for maintaining public order and the maintenance of the urban space. In the field of illegal graffiti, its role includes: erasing or covering graffiti, especially when it is offensive or inflammatory. Cooperating with the police to locate those responsible and bring them to justice. In some cases, financial fines are also applied. Creating legal alternatives such as regulated graffiti walls, educational activities in schools and encouraging street art within a legal framework.
Haifa Municipality has not yet given a response.
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