Law Enforcement Agencies (Police and Sheriffs Department) 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.
