[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Commissioners of the Township of
Marple by Ord. No. 97-3 (Ch. 33 of the 1971 Code). Amendments
noted where applicable.]
The use of broad-tipped pens, paint spray cans, pencils, pens, crayons
or other marking devices to write graffiti, verbal or otherwise, on the walls
or other available spaces on public or private buildings, vehicles, areas
or facilities causes serious defacement of such buildings, vehicles and areas,
public and private, and contributes to the deterioration of property values,
as well as offending the public's right, public and private, not to have
unsightly and unlawful graffiti on, with defacement of, public and private
property, and it constitutes a deleterious practice contrary to the public
health and welfare. In addition, such contempt for the property rights of
private citizens as well as public facilities contributes to the erosion of
law and order and contributes to the deterioration in the quality of life
of the community and must be opposed and punished.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the following
meanings indicated:
Any letters, numbers, word or words, writing, inscription, symbol,
drawing, carving, etching or any other marking of any nature whatsoever which
defaces, obliterates, covers, alters, damages or destroys the real or personal
property. This definition shall not be construed to prohibit easily removable
chalk markings on the public sidewalks and streets used in connection with
traditional children's games.
No person shall write, print, spray or place with ink, paint, chalk
or any other substance or substances or otherwise mark, scratch, carve or
etch graffiti on real or personal property, whether said real or personal
property is publicly or privately owned.
Any person, firm or corporation who violates any of the provisions of
this chapter shall, upon conviction thereof, be punishable by a fine of not
more than $1,000, plus costs of prosecution, and in default of payment of
such fine and costs by imprisonment for not more than 30 days for each violation.
