Spatio-temporal analysis of graffiti occurrence in an inner-city urban environment

► The inherent diversity of graffiti culture has a role in defining urban space. ► Graffiti management often presents policy challenges for municipal authorities. ► Geocoding and spatial cluster analysis was used to identify graffiti hotspots across inner-city Sydney. ► Results show spatio-temporal variability in graffiti hotspots over a six-month period. ► Zero-tolerance policies may reduce the return rate but could change graffiti location and form.