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Crime Free Housing Programs
Law Enforcement Agencies (Police and Sheriffs) in many communities have adopted a Crime
Free Housing Program which offers an opportunity for participating community managers and
residents to work with local Law Enforcement to provide a safer environment by decreasing
criminal activity in their community. Many manufactured, mobile and RV communities are
presently participating in a Crime Free Housing Program if it is available in their jurisdiction.
Typically, the Crime Free Housing Program is offered by the local Law Enforcement Agency and
includes three phases:
Phase I: Property managers and other personnel employed by the community must
undergo training which typically includes education on preparing the property so it does
not attract crime; applicant screening; a crime free addendum which should be added to
all rental agreements; warning signs of illegal activity and the action to be taken in such
circumstances; and crime prevention through environmental design.
Phase II: A representative of the Law Enforcement Agency will inspect the property for
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design and general appearance. The Design
security requirements may include applicant screening; a crime free addendum to rental
agreements; enforcement of community rules that should include Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design requirements; and lighting and landscaping in the
community. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design requirements may include
such things as the maximum height for hedges located near home windows and a
specific level of lighting available at night in the community.
Phase III: After successfully completing the first two phases, typically the community will
hold a meeting for its residents and have a representative of the Law Enforcement
Agency available to explain the Crime Free Housing Program.
Upon successful completion of all phases, a community can post Crime Free Housing Program
signs on the property and may use it in advertisements.
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