How to Repel Loiterers

No Loitering

Loitering poses a problem for many businesses. People who loiter will often do some type of damage to property, such as tagging buildings with graffiti or damaging concrete with skateboards. Loiterers are sometimes associated with the sale of illicit drugs, and even when they are not, the mere possibility is usually enough to send your customers down the street and into the waiting arms of your competitor. In short, loiterers almost always do some level of damage to your business, and rarely provide anything positive. As such, it is generally a good practice to keep loiterers away. The real question is, How do you repel loiterers? This article will provide you with good general advice for reducing the aimless hanging around.

Things You'll Need

• "No Loitering" signs
• Surveillance camera

Instructions

1. Post “No Loitering” signs in areas where you have noticed people congregating. Loiterers may very well ignore the signs, but some will take notice and opt to move to another location rather than drawing unnecessary attention to themselves.

2. If the sign isn’t working, point it out to the loiterers and ask them to leave. Try to distance yourself from the decision. Tell them that the boss is coming down hard on loiterers (even if you are the boss). Distancing yourself from the decision helps to eliminate any animosity, and reduces the chances of the loiterers doing any damage to your property.

3. Install a video-surveillance camera and post a sign to notify loiterers that that are being videotaped. Most people do not want to loiter on camera, and will leave. This tactic is particularly effective at repelling loiterers who may be engaged in criminal activity, such as selling or using illegal drugs. When cameras go up, loiterers often go away.

4. Hire a security guard. This is an added expense that should probably only be assumed in the case of chronic loitering, but it's very effective. The presence of a security guard will also give your customers additional peace of mind, making them feel safer in general.

5. Provide incentives to law enforcement. Many businesses will offer free free coffee and other perks in hopes that police officers will make more frequent visits to the premises. While these incentives may or may not be legal for officers to accept, it is a simple truth that the extra police presence is enough to repel even the most stubborn loiterers.

Tips & Warnings

• Well-lit areas with visible security cameras will often deter loiterers.

• If you suspect the loiterers of engaging in criminal activity, do not approach them on your own. Call the police to notify them of your suspicions and ask that they remove the loiterers from your property.