Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a globally recognized approach to enhancing safety by shaping our physical surroundings and promoting positive social interactions. It is based on the idea that our environment influences our behaviour. Safer environments lead to safer communities.

CPTED reduces opportunities for crime and increases feelings of safety, improving overall quality of life. It complements crime prevention strategies like locks, security systems and police.

Key strategies include:

• Maintenance and Guardianship: a well-maintained home, building or park signals care and oversight, discouraging criminal activity.
• Community Engagement: Encouraging legitimate use of public spaces by residents and visitors helps deter crime.
• Natural Access Control: Strategic placement of entrances, exits, fences, landscaping and lighting guides movement and limits access to potential targets, increasing perceived risk for offenders.

In existing communities:

Implementation is most effective when led by a trained CPTED practitioner, in collaboration with community leaders and members, and crime prevention advocates. Understanding the root causes of crime is essential for success.

In new communities:

CPTED should be integrated early, during planning, design and construction, to ensure long-term impact.

For more information on CPTED, contact the Crime Prevention Team.