Last Updated on February 14, 2024, 9:47 AM | Published: February 14, 2024
The City of Oklahoma City sends this information as posted below:
Thanks to today’s sign code ordinance adoption, the City of Oklahoma City makes it easier than ever for artists to create murals.
Most murals will no longer require a permit and will not need to be reviewed by the City’s Art Commission. Per the new ordinance, permits are only required if the mural:
- Contains electrical components.
- Contains three-dimensional elements.
- Is mechanically fastened.
A Certificate of Approval is still required in the City’s design districts. City staff may approve if the mural meets district guidelines.
These changes stemmed from feedback from stakeholders and the art community. Artists wanted a more streamlined process and a clear definition of when permits are needed.
“The new mural ordinance is a big win for both artists and for City staff, but especially for the residents of Oklahoma City who have welcomed the blossoming of art in Oklahoma City over the last decade,” OKC Arts Program Planner Randy Marks said. “The guidelines are clear and easy to follow, but if anyone has questions, they should contact us at [email protected]. Robi, Leondre and I look forward to even more outstanding mural art appearing in the next few months!”
Public art in OKC
In 2021 and 2022, Oklahoma City was selected by voters as USA Today’s best city for street art. That is in part because of the City’s 1% for Arts Ordinance but also because of nonprofits like Oklahoma Mural Syndicate and local artists, including world-renowned artist Denise Duong.
Duong found the previous multi-stage permitting process to be over-regulated and stifling.
“As an arts commissioner, I’m going to miss seeing all the mural proposals, but am excited to see many more murals around our city pop up with the new ordinance,” Duong said.
Learn more about the newly adopted sign code ordinance and the mural process at okc.gov.
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