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Graffiti Removal Services in Tacoma

 

The City of Tacoma is dedicated to maintaining clean, safe, and vibrant neighborhoods by offering graffiti removal services that help prevent property damage, preserve property values, and deter vandalism. Prompt graffiti removal is a key step in creating an inviting environment for residents and visitors alike.

 

Graffiti Removal Program

In partnership with the Safe Streets Campaign, Tidy-Up Tacoma provides citywide graffiti mitigation services to private property owners utilizing a local graffiti removal contractor.

  • Free Graffiti Removal Services: Tidy-Up Tacoma offers one (1) cleanup per year at no cost to eligible private property owners.
  • Supply Reimbursement: Safe Streets Campaign reimburses costs for supplies used to remove graffiti from private properties.

Eligibility Requirements
Private properties must meet program guidelines to qualify for these services. Guidelines are subject to City approval.

For details, review the Program Guidelines below to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.

 

Important Notes for Property Owners

This program is an additional resource to help property owners address graffiti but does not replace the City’s code compliance requirements. Property owners remain responsible for removing graffiti from their properties.

By working together, we can keep Tacoma beautiful and welcoming for everyone.

Program Guidelines

For questions or to learn more about the program, contact Tidy-Up Tacoma at (253) 502-2100 or graffiti@cityoftacoma.org

 

Graffiti Removal Services

 To qualify for free graffiti removal services, properties must meet the following requirements:

  • Location: Property must be located within Tacoma city limits and graffiti must face a major arterial roadway (side streets and alleys are not eligible).
  • Property Type: Only private properties are eligible (e.g., properties owned by WSDOT or Tacoma Public Schools do not qualify).
  • Authorization Form: A signed authorization form must be completed by the property owner or an authorized representative.
  • Occupancy: Property must be occupied (vacant buildings or lots are not eligible).
  • Water Supply: If pressure washing is required, the property owner must provide water access.
  • Graffiti Threshold: Graffiti must meet the contractor’s minimum callout threshold for removal. If not, the program may offer a cost reimbursement option.
  • Annual Limit: Properties are eligible for one (1) graffiti removal per year.
  • Primary Focus: Services prioritize commercial buildings. Exceptions may be made with prior City approval for:

Cost Reimbursement: 

 If the graffiti removal services are not available or eligible, property owners may qualify for cost reimbursement.

  • Eligibility Requirements:
    • Property must be within Tacoma city limits.
    • Must be private property (WSDOT, Tacoma Public Schools, etc., are not eligible).
  • Documentation Needed:
  • Submit before and after photos of the graffiti removal.
  • Provide receipts for supplies used.
  • Reimbursement Details:
  • Up to $100 (including tax) can be reimbursed per property within a 12-month period.

Authorization Form

To sign up for the program, please submit an online authorization form or mail/email us your authorization form using the link below in your chosen language. If you need assistance completing an authorization form or have questions, please contact our Tidy-Up Tacoma team at (253) 502-2100 or tidyup@cityoftacoma.org

Additional Resources

  • To report graffiti in progress, call 911
  • To report graffiti concerns on private property call 311 when within city limits, (253) 591-5000 when outside city limits, or submit a "Graffiti Concern" request by using this link.
  • For graffiti on WSDOT property (i.e., I-5, SR-16, etc.), please complete a report using this link.
  • If you are a victim of graffiti, please take the following steps:
  1. File a police report online or by calling (253) 287-4455
  2. Take picture of the graffiti (for homeowner's insurance and/or police report)
  3. Contact your homeowner's insurance agent (if you choose to file a claim)

Assistance with graffiti authorization forms and cost reimbursement:

 

Tidy-Up Tacoma

(253) 502-2100

Email 

 

 

Submit an authorization form online or send authorization forms via email

  

or

 

Mail to:

City of Tacoma

Attn: Graffiti Removal Program

3510 S Mullen Street

Tacoma, WA 98409-2200

 

Reporting graffiti concerns on private property:

Call 311 or (253) 591-5000 when outside city limits

 



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