Crime Prevention through Environmental Design

Share & Bookmark, Press Enter to show all options, press Tab go to next option
Print
CPTED

CPTED is defined as “the proper design and effective use of the built environment that can lead to a reduction in the fear and incidence of crime and an improvement in the quality of life.”

Program Goals

The goal of CPTED is to reduce opportunities for crime that may be inherent in the design of structures or in the design of neighborhoods. This goal is accomplished through the involvement of CPTED trained law enforcement officers in the planning, development and design review of community projects. CPTED uses various tools to evaluate environmental conditions and utilize intervention methods to control criminal behavior and reduce the fear of crime.

CPTED is defined as “the proper design and effective use of the built environment that can lead to a reduction in the fear and incidence of crime and an improvement in the quality of life.”

CPTED is based on four overlapping strategies:

  1. Natural access control

  2. Natural surveillance

  3. Territorial reinforcement

  4. Maintenance

Impact on the Community

How does CPTED impact me? CPTED impacts each citizen by increasing safety, promoting secure environments and improving the appearance of neighborhoods, business districts, and public amenities.

How is it Accomplished?

By establishing a policy and regulatory framework for a physical design which can include:

  • Landscape Plan

  • Street Lighting Plan

  • Access Controls

  • Street Design

  • Traffic Controls

  • Demolition of Structures

  • Lot Clearing

  •  Sidewalk Improvements

  • Beautification

  • Parks Improvement

  • Community Clean-ups

  • Traffic Calming

  • Maintenance

Involvement

How can you get involved? Contact the Police Department’s COPPS Unit to see how CPTED can benefit your home or business.

Progress

CPTED & the City of North Kansas City Programs currently in place allow for CPTED Specialists to review plans, conduct site surveys of existing property, and make recommendations for enhancement.

What are the Results?

CPTED improves existing services by law enforcement working with neighborhoods, businesses, and other departments. Communities that use CPTED as part of the design process have had great success!

CPTED Services Training

Members of the North Kansas City Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing & Problem Solving (C.O.P.P.S.) Unit have received training in the area of CPTED. Officers learn how the design and use of the environment can control criminal behavior and reduce the fear of crime through natural means. Participants also learn the different aspects of lighting and the effect it can have on human behavior.

Reviews

CPTED trained officers will come to your home or business for an on-site review. Officers can work closely with businesses, citizens, and property managers to make recommendations that decrease the opportunity for crime