Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

CPTED focuses on using smart design choices to deter crime before it happens.
A police officer and a man look at a gate on the fence at a home

What is CPTED?

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) focuses on using smart design choices to deter crime before it happens. Instead of reacting after an incident, you make your home or business a harder target from the start.

When you apply CPTED principles, you reduce opportunities for criminal behaviour and increase the chances of being seen or caught. Simple changes can make a big difference. Trim overgrown trees and bushes so they don’t provide hiding spots. Keep doors and windows visible from the street. Add and maintain proper lighting so dark areas don’t give criminals cover.

These small steps work together to make your property — and your community — safer.

How to improve security at home or work

Every property is different, and so is every family or business. Start by having a quick conversation with the people you live or work with about safety. Then walk your property with a critical eye.

Ask yourself:

A police officer and a man look at the back of a home

Does my current setup discourage someone from attempting a break-in?

Can neighbours or passersby easily see what’s happening on my property?

Would my security measures help identify or catch someone?

CPTED tips for safer properties

Improve visibility

Trim or remove shrubs and trees that block sightlines. Make it easy to see around your property.

Define boundaries

Install fencing with a secure, lockable gate to clearly mark your space and limit access — especially to the backyard.

Upgrade lighting

Add bright exterior lighting. Motion-sensor lights are a smart, energy-efficient option.

Reinforce doors

Install solid-core exterior doors with quality deadbolt locks.

Secure outbuildings

Lock sheds and other structures, and keep them visible from your home.

Maintain your property

Keep your property clean and well-maintained to signal it’s cared for and actively used.
An officer and two people can be seen in security camera footage

Stay Safe

Register Your Security Cameras

An officer walks by a home in a neighbourhood

Stay Safe

Break and Enter Prevention

A woman wearing a uniform looks at a laptop

Stay Safe

Neighbourhood Watch