Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Unfortunately, crime has become an everyday occurrence in our lives. Our discussion regarding crime often revolves around the arrest and punishment of those committing illegal acts, indicating that we become involved after the fact.

Preventing crime offers tremendous savings to everyone and is the basis upon which Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) has developed.The National Crime Prevention Institute defines CPTED as “the proper design and effective use of the built environment leading to a reduction in fear and incidence of crime, and an improvement in the quality of life.”

CPTED has four overlapping strategies/guidelines that are recommended in the design of financial institutions.

Natural Surveillance

The placement of physical features, activities and people in a way that maximizes visibility and keeps those persons using the site in view of others.

Parking areas that are well lit and entrances that are unobstructed allow your staff to see people approaching before they enter the building. A criminal does not want to be seen in advance and they certainly do not want to be viewed as they attempt to get away.

Natural Access Control

This design concept decreases crime opportunity by denying access to areas that are not intended for public use. People should be physically guided through a space or site by sidewalks, entrances, landscaping and signage. By limiting the number of entrances, requiring visitors to sign in, and separating employee parking from visitor parking, you will control people as they move about your site and reduce the opportunity for crime.

Territorial Reinforcement

The outside design of your site can create a sense of control or ownership. Defining property lines with pavement designs, gates, signage or landscaping can create barriers that discourage unwanted activity.

Maintenance

Proper site maintenance prevents reduced visibility due to plant overgrowth, inoperative lighting, and site deterioration. Well-maintained areas exude pride and control over the area, deterrents to crime.

CPTED design strategies should be applied to single family homes, multiple family homes, public/ private businesses, and commercial areas such as shopping centers. While it is impossible to make a site or area totally crime proof, using CPTED strategies should reduce the probability of crime and provide a comfort level for those persons using the site as intended.

CPTED services are available in many cities by contacting your local police department.

We encourage you to have existing sites reviewed as well as any plans for new sites. CPTED is an effective strategy to enhance your building design and protect your staff and members.

Additional Resources (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)