Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Have you ever wondered why lights are kept on at businesses at night? Why are fences common among neighborhoods? Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) optimizes the layout and design of a space to increase security. CPTED (pronounced “sep-ted“) is a proactive approach to security that began around 1960-1970, stemming from the works of writers Elizabeth Woods and Jane Jacobs, criminologist Ray Jeffery, and architect Oscar Newman. The relationship between urban development and illegal activities came into question, and a desire to deter crime through environmental design was explored. Natural surveillance, natural access control, territorial reinforcement, and maintenance and management became the four original pillars of CPTED.

1. Natural Surveillance

Natural surveillance is all about visibility. By eliminating hiding spaces and opting for a more open environment, natural surveillance places accountability with the community. If something or someone seems suspicious, it is up to the community to report their observations. Criminals are less likely to commit a crime when their chances of being seen are multiplied.

Examples of natural surveillance include removing barriers that would obstruct the public’s line of sight and increasing lighting during hours of darkness to improve a person’s range of vision.

2. Natural Access Control

Intentional use of shrubbery, trees, and fences to regulate the flow of traffic through admission points is an example of natural access control. Similarly, the fewer number of access points (i.e. entrances, exits, windows, etc.) into a facility is best. Limiting these kinds of pathways with barriers deters criminals who are looking for the quickest way to enter and escape.

Examples of natural access control include the use of signs and flags to clearly designate an entrance and thorny, “hostile” vegetation to deter those who want to go off the beaten path.

3. Territorial Reinforcement

Territorial reinforcement is another way of setting boundaries through the use of design. Boundaries can clarify what an area is used for, and who you would expect to see come and go. Design can communicate that an area is cared for and monitored through visual cues such as manicured shrubbery and outdoor seating. An area that insinuates pride of ownership sends a “hands-off” message to intruders. It is obvious to an onlooker who should or should not be on the property.

Examples of territorial reinforcement include using half walls or hedges to delineate space and the use of gates to transition between pedestrian areas and commercial areas.

4. Maintenance and Management

CPTED’s maintenance and management pillar is loosely based on James Wilson and George Kelling’s theory of “Broken Windows“. This 1982 theory proposes that an unmaintained and disorderly area, such as a broken window left in disrepair, equals an area that is of no importance. In other words, the area appears to be neglected and would attract acts of crime. Maintenance and management encourage upholding clean standards.

Examples of maintenance and management include swept areas, well maintained landscapes, immediate repairs, and adherence to city standards.

Understanding the spatial aspects of how the environment interacts with people is another way to reduce crime. Take a look at your surroundings. Are there any alterations that can be made that would increase your property’s CPTED? Check out our real-estate white paper here. Better yet, consult with a professional security consultant for a thorough risk assessment now!

How Can Sapphire Risk Help?

Tony Gallo and the team of experts and consultants at Sapphire Risk Advisory Group have worked to secure medical marijuana and recreational cannabis businesses in 37 states. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with more security best practices and cannabis industry updates!