South Lanarkshire Council is urging residents and visitors to respect the area.
The local authority is spreading the message to respect South Lanarkshire and avoid anti-social behaviour, including graffiti, littering and vandalism which usually increases during the summer.
Councillor Davie McLachlan, the chair of the housing and technical resources committee, said: “During the better weather of the summer months, there is nothing better than getting outside and enjoying the area we live in, but that enjoyment can be spoilt by those who seek to disfigure their surroundings.
“It is a matter of showing consideration for our own neighbours and neighbourhoods, and having a bit of pride in ourselves. However, if someone has disfigured their surroundings with graffiti, it is important that anyone spotting it should report it to the council as soon as possible.
“The removal of graffiti can be extremely time-consuming and costly for the council, with thousands of pounds each year being spent on its removal, but it is important to remove it as soon as possible because the longer any graffiti remains in place, the more likely it is to encourage more graffiti.
“We will remove graffiti from all council-owned property, including buildings, street furniture and play equipment, for example, and can also remove it from private property although, in that case, a disclaimer does need to be signed prior to any work taking place.
“It is also worth bearing in mind that it is illegal – graffiti is an act of vandalism and, as such, offenders can be charged with a criminal offence under section 52, Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995.
“However, the best solution is for it not to happen in the first place, so I really would urge anyone tempted to do it to think of others and let everyone enjoy their surroundings.”
The council removes offensive graffiti, including any that is racist or sectarian within 24 hours of being notified of it, and those wishing to report offensive graffiti can do so by calling 0303 123 1020.
Non-offensive graffiti is usually removed within five working days and it can be reported here.
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