Graffiti is a form of vandalism that damages property, causes public safety issues and can result in liability. It negatively impacts local neighbourhoods by making public spaces appear unsafe. More often than not, graffiti is also used as a means to mark territories.

Typically, graffiti falls under “institutional vandalism” or “criminal mischief.” While a graffiti offense may be considered a misdemeanor, which is a minor offense, more than one such offense can add up to a felony.

graffiti, form of visual communication, usually illegal, involving the unauthorized marking of public space by an individual or group. Although the common image of graffiti is a stylistic symbol or phrase spray-painted on a wall by a member of a street gang, some graffiti is not gang-related.

But is there a difference between graffiti and art? Well, graffiti isn't a traditionally accepted art form, it's rather new and challenges the conventions of the time. Many different movements now accepted were considered scandalous and vandalism when they first emerged.