Which CPTED principle involves natural surveillance?

• A. Natural surveillance
• B. Natural access control
• C. Territorial reinforcement
• D. Maintenance/improved image

Answer: (A)

Natural surveillance is about making spaces easy to observe so people can be seen and potential offenders feel they might be noticed. It uses design elements that maximize visibility—clear sightlines, windows and active street-facing uses, open layouts, and good lighting—to turn ordinary observers (neighbors, employees, pedestrians) into guardians who deter crime simply by watching. The idea is that when areas are easily watched, opportunities for crime decrease because offenders prefer places where they can’t be seen. Other CPTED principles focus on guiding people with physical barriers (natural access control), signaling ownership and boundaries (territorial reinforcement), or signaling upkeep and care (maintenance/improved image), rather than enhancing visibility and passive surveillance.