Which CPTED concept involves guiding and restricting access to reduce crime opportunities?

• A. Natural Surveillance
• B. Territorial Reinforcement
• C. Natural Access Control
• D. Maintenance

Answer: (C)

Guiding and restricting access to reduce crime opportunities is about shaping how people move through spaces so offenders have fewer chances to commit crimes. This is Natural Access Control, a CPTED approach that uses design to direct legitimate traffic and limit entry to vulnerable areas. Examples include clearly defined entrances, fewer or strategically placed access points, gates or barriers that steer people along monitored routes, and visibility around entry points so activity can be observed. By making it easier to access through legitimate channels and harder to reach hidden or secluded areas, opportunities for crime are reduced. The other concepts focus on different ideas: Natural Surveillance is about keeping spaces visible to observers; Territorial Reinforcement signals ownership and boundaries to deter intrusion; Maintenance concerns the upkeep and perceived safety of an area.