Let’s talk murals. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a mural? Oklahoma City Municipal Code defines mural as a one-of-a-kind visual depiction, and/or work of art, or licensed reproduction of an original work of art. It may be created using various methods including, but not limited to paint, mosaic tiles, or graphic art techniques such as vinyl wraps that are applied, painted, implanted, or placed directly onto the exterior of any structure.

Where are murals permitted? Murals are a permitted use in all zoning districts. However, you must apply for a Certificate of Approval or Appropriateness in the following districts: Design Districts, Historic Preservation Districts, and Historic Landmark Districts. Check out this map to see if you are in one of these districts:

Links to Design Districts: 

• Bricktown Urban Design District
• Downtown Design Districts
• Historic Preservation
• Scenic River Overlay Design District
• Stockyards Urban Design District
• Urban Design Overlay Districts

How can murals be attached? Murals may be painted on or applied directly to a wall or attached to a frame or substrate that is attached to a wall.

What components are allowed on a mural? Murals may contain any of the following: electrical components, three-dimensional elements, lighting, moving elements, images, and/or any method that causes periodic changes in appearance.

If the mural has one or more of those components, who can install it? A licensed sign contractor is required to install a mural that is attached (i.e., mechanically fastened) to the surface. A licensed electrical contractor is required to install electrical components and lighting.

Does a mural require a permit? A mural requires a sign permit only if any of the following apply:

• it is attached (i.e. mechanically fastened as opposed to painted or directly applied) to the surface;
• it contains electrical components;
• it contains three-dimensional elements that have height, width, and depth.

Do murals need to be sealed with an anti-graffiti coating? It is not a requirement but always a good idea!

Does painting or installing a mural require the building owner’s approval? Definitely! Without the owner’s consent, the mural is considered to be graffiti and is subject to removal and any person who applies graffiti to public or private property shall be deemed guilty of an offense and subject to a fine or imprisonment.

What are “Best Practices” to consider when installing a mural? There should be a written contract between the building owner and the artist(s). It should include details such as the time frame in which the mural will remain on the building, maintenance and care of the mural, ownership of the mural upon completion, and insurance and liability. There should also be a Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) waiver signed by the artist.

Does Oklahoma City have a list of mural artists? No, there is not a formal list, but you might want to check out muralists in the OKC Artist Registry.

What is the Oklahoma City Arts Commission’s role? The Arts Commission advises the City of Oklahoma City on art and culture to ensure we preserve and enrich our aesthetic identity. It encourages exterior murals that are original works of art, fostering positive community identity and appearance.

Murals should advance streetscape aesthetics and architectural features or character, helping to create a unique identity, sense of place and civic pride. They should encourage community interaction and the preservation of local history and culture.

Other important information:

This document is not intended to offer legal advice. It is provided to educate and inform Artists, Sponsors, and the Public about best practices for murals.

If you need more information about murals, contact staff in the Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs.

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