Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) focuses on shaping physical environments to reduce crime and improve security. By applying CPTED strategies, you can:

• Improve visibility around your home or business
• Create natural barriers that discourage trespassing
• Maintain your property to signal active ownership
• Reduce opportunities for crime before they happen

Natural Surveillance

• Increase visibility by trimming shrubs and trees near entry points
• Install motion-activated lighting around your property
• Position windows to allow clear sightlines of entrances and outdoor areas

Natural Access Control

• Use fences, gates, and landscaping to guide people toward designated entrances
• Ensure items that could be used to access your property are not stacked or placed along fences, e.g. landscaping materials, garbage cans, etc.
• Ensure pathways and driveways are well-lit and clearly marked
• Install security cameras or doorbell cameras as deterrents

Territoriality

• Define property boundaries with fences, signage, or decorative landscaping
• Keep entryways clean and welcoming to signal active use
• Encourage neighbourhood involvement in maintaining shared spaces

Maintenance

• Regularly remove graffiti, litter, or debris from your property
• Repair broken lights, fences, or windows to show the space is actively managed
• Keep landscaping tidy to eliminate potential hiding spots

Applying CPTED principles looks different depending on the type of property.

For Homes:

• Install a security system or motion-sensor lighting
• Be mindful of neighbours and light pollution by ensuring lights are pointed to the necessary area for illumination only
• Keep hedges and fences low enough for visibility but high enough to deter trespassers
• Clearly mark house numbers to help emergency services respond quickly

For Businesses:

• Use clear, visible signage for entrances and exits
• Ensure the front counter or service area has a clear view of the entrance
• Position security cameras to cover blind spots or vulnerable areas

Learn more about CPTED: CPTED Canada

Report concerns to Stony Plain Enforcement Services: Report A Problem

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