Vandalism at Schools: Small Signs - Big Administrative Act

A simple proposal to place notice boards at school entrances in Hamburg’s Harburg district has triggered a political row. The CDU wants signs declaring that access is banned after 9 p.m., pointing to a surge in vandalism on school grounds. But critics argue the plan is more complicated—and costly—than it first appears.

The debate began after reports of increased damage to school property in the area. CDU representative Rainer Bliefernicht linked the problem to cuts in security staff and reduced video monitoring. His party’s solution: small signs warning against trespassing after hours.

Bliefernicht admitted the signs themselves would cost around €50 each. However, he warned that administrative expenses would push the total far higher. The process involves multiple steps, including approval from the district assembly, the Hamburg Authority for Schools and Vocational Training (BSB), and potentially other bodies like Hamburg Building Management (GmH) or School Infrastructure Hamburg (SBH).

The responsibility for ordering and installing the signs lies with the BSB’s school infrastructure unit, not the city’s building authority. This means schools must coordinate with the BSB to commission, approve, and place the signage—adding layers of bureaucracy to what seemed a straightforward fix.

The proposal now faces scrutiny over both its effectiveness and its practicality. While the CDU insists the signs will deter vandalism, opponents question whether the effort—and expense—will deliver results. For now, the plan remains under discussion as officials weigh the next steps.