
The difference between art and graffiti is permission.
Graffiti is a mark -- including an inscription, slogan, drawing, painting, symbol, logo, name, character, or figure -- made in any manner on public or private property that is visible to the public. Creating graffiti without consent of the property owner is a crime in the City of Austin, and taggers are subject to various penalties under state law.
Report Graffiti
Report graffiti or tagging in progress online, with the 3-1-1 mobile app or by calling 3-1-1.
Prevent Graffiti in Austin
Taking steps to prevent graffiti is as important as reporting it to us.
Install Murals
Studies show installing an art mural in high-tagged areas works effectively as a deterrent for future vandalism.
- If you would like to install a mural in your neighborhood, please consider submitting an application to the City's Neighborhood Partnering Program.
- From time to time, the City's Art in Public Places program commissions permanent and temporary murals from local artists.
- Additionally, the City is developing an ArtBox program to cover our traffic signal boxes with murals.
If you are interested in these programs, email Graffiti.Abatement@austintexas.gov.
Use Environmental Design
The Austin Police Department has identified several means to prevent crime through environmental design:
- Installing street lights
- Installing motion-censor cameras
- Making a clear line of sight by cutting back shrubbery and other impediments
- Plant trees to cover the wall
Request a free CPTED assessment from the Austin Police Department through your district representative.
Volunteer
People interested in volunteering to remove graffiti can contact Keep Austin Beautiful at 512-391-0617 or by visiting the KAB website: KeepAustinBeautiful.Org.
Email Graffiti.Abatement@austintexas.gov to request a City presentation at your neighborhood or community group.