Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Practice Exam

In considering CPTED, what does effective landscaping aim to create?

1. Ownership of a site

2. Privacy for residents

3. High greenery coverage

4. Space for recreation

The correct answer is: Ownership of a site

Effective landscaping in the context of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is primarily focused on creating a sense of ownership of a site. When landscaping is designed thoughtfully, it can contribute to the establishment of territoriality, where individuals feel a sense of pride and responsibility for their environment. This ownership can deter criminal activity, as individuals are more likely to take action to protect spaces that they feel connected to and invested in. Landscaping that fosters a sense of ownership often includes features such as clear boundaries, defined pathways, and aesthetically pleasing plants and signage that indicate the space is cared for. This creates a visual cue that suggests the area is monitored and valued, discouraging potential offenders who may prefer neglected or abandoned spaces. While privacy for residents, high greenery coverage, and space for recreation are important considerations in landscaping, they serve different purposes. Privacy might reduce visibility into an area, which can sometimes create an environment less conducive to surveillance. High greenery coverage can enhance aesthetic appeal but may also obstruct sightlines if not designed carefully. Spaces for recreation promote community engagement and well-being but might not address ownership as directly as the landscaping intended to create a sense of territoriality. Thus, the primary goal of effective landscaping in CPTED is to foster ownership,