LA FARGE, Wis. — The La Farge Police Department is launching a new initiative to address junked, unregistered, and inoperable vehicles located throughout the Village. A press release from the Department states that beginning September 15, Chief Steven Palmer will begin proactive enforcement efforts, moving sector by sector across the community to notify property owners of violations and ensure compliance with local ordinances.
The Police Department says in an effort to organize the effort the Village has been divided into enforcement sectors, and Chief Palmer will inspect one sector at a time. Notices of violation will be issued for vehicles found to be abandoned, visibly inoperable, or lacking current registration.
“We are taking a systematic approach to keep La Farge in compliance with our local ordinances,” said Chief Palmer. “This is about improving neighborhood conditions while not surprising residents. That’s why we’re providing notice and options for compliance.”
While a similar ordinance has existed since 1996, consistent, systematic enforcement has only recently been prioritized.
The Department states the initiative is clean up the community but evidence shows it hleps reduce crime. The Department says it is grounded in principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)—a strategy that uses the design and upkeep of public and private spaces to discourage criminal behavior. CPTED emphasizes how factors like visibility, territorial control, and regular maintenance contribute to a safer, more cohesive community.
Abandoned or junked vehicles, when left unattended, can become magnets for criminal activity. They reduce visibility, create hiding spots, and send a message that a space is neglected and unmonitored. This visual neglect can lead to a decline in community morale and safety.
The effort also reflects the Broken Windows Theory, which suggests that visible signs of disorder—like broken windows, graffiti, or abandoned vehicles—can invite more serious crimes if not promptly addressed. When these signs of neglect are allowed to persist, they can create an environment where criminal activity feels tolerated or unnoticed. Conversely, prompt action to address small issues sends a strong signal that the community values safety, order, and accountability.
The Department goes on to cite research to support the effort, including:
- Studies consistently show that CPTED interventions—like improving lighting, removing visual obstructions, and maintaining cleanliness—are correlated with reductions in crime. For example, neighborhoods that adopt CPTED practices often report lower incidents of theft, vandalism, and even violent crime.
- Several cities that adopted Broken Windows-inspired initiatives (e.g., targeted cleanup efforts, graffiti removal, stricter code enforcement) saw drops in both crime rates and perceptions of danger.
- Further information about the problem of abandoned and other types of derelict vehicles can be found on the Arizona State University Center of Problem-Oriented Policing at: https://www.popcenter.org/content/abandoned-vehicles-0
What Village residents and business owners can do:
Residents and business owners can assist in this effort by being proactive—checking their properties and taking steps to repair, remove, or register non-compliant vehicles before formal notifications are issued. This not only helps avoid citations but also contributes directly to a cleaner, safer La Farge for everyone.
Permit Waiver Option Available
Residents who wish to keep one noncompliant vehicle on their property may apply for a Temporary Storage Permit. This permit:
• Allows one junked or unregistered vehicle per property to remain for up to one year
• Is non-transferable between owners or properties
• Requires a $50 application fee
• Must be applied for in person at the La Farge Village Hall
Enforcement begins September 15, 2025, in Sector 1, with each sector addressed in order. Properties will be inspected and notices issued for:
- Junked, abandoned, or inoperable vehicles
- Vehicles lacking valid/current registration
Property owners will be given a grace period to correct violations or apply for the waiver permit before further action is taken
More information about Ordinance 10-5 Abandoned and Junked Vehicles and Appliances, and the associated permit application can be found here.
The La Farge Police Department encourages all residents to review their property and take necessary steps to comply. Early action can help avoid enforcement notices and promote a safer, cleaner, and more unified village.
For questions or to view the sector map, please contact the La Farge Police Department at (608) 625-4500 or visit the La Farge Village Hall during business hours.
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