Graffiti Abatement

Murals vs. Graffiti - What's The Difference?

Murals are done with the permission of the property owner.  Graffiti is done without permission on public or private property, and is therefore illegal. South Carolina law states that first offenders receive a fine up to $1,000.00 and/or jail time between 30 and 90 days, and restitution to the victim. A second conviction within ten years results in a fine up to $2,500.00 and/or jail time up to 1 year. You can report graffiti in the City of Charleston by calling the Livability Department at 843-805-3226.

If you wish to apply for a permit for an outdoor mural, you can do so through the City of Charleston. KCB is a strong supporter of community murals. Our past mural projects can be seen at Mitchell Park and Mall Park downtown.

Murals Help to:

  • Prevent illegal graffiti
  • Encourage local artists to create sanctioned public art
  • Empower citizens to take an active role in their community
  • Increase the public's access to art
  • Beautify and help tell the story of a community
  • Attract new local businesses
  • Boost the economy of the area


mural painting

Current Graffiti Abatement Projects:

Keep Charleston Beautiful is currently working to help curb graffiti issues along the Lowcountry Lowline recreational pathway on the Charleston peninsula. The area near Poinsett and Grove Streets was plagued by offensive graffiti, along with vulgar words and images. With it being so close to a school and future plans in the work to revitalize the park space, we thought the area would be a good candidate for a graffiti abatement project. 

Local neighbors were involved in the process of choosing the bright new colors for the space, and volunteer groups have been working diligently over the last year to cover the column bases and give the space new life. The project has been supported financially by a number of neighborhood residents, as well as some local businesses and organizations. The project is still ongoing, so please reach out if you'd like to donate or volunteer. 

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Graffiti