Prague launches pilot project to remove graffiti from city buildings

Citizens can report vandalism via the “No Graffiti” mobile application

Tackling graffiti is a challenge for many cities around the world. By vandalising property and defiling public spaces, graffiti decreases the attractiveness of cities. Often, one can see hate speech sprayed onto walls, monuments, and properties. Unsurprisingly, this decreases the quality of life for citizens and gives rise to deeper issues.

Now, the City of Prague has set its sight on fighting this problem with a pilot project to remove graffiti from city buildings. To successfully do so, it has entrusted the municipal company Technology of the Capital City of Prague (THMP) and released a new mobile application where citizens can report vandalism.

"Graffiti in a public space is a long-standing problem, defiling public areas and destroying both public and private property. I am convinced that in addition to correcting vandalism, the project will also have an important preventive role. When sprayers see that their creations on surfaces covered with anti-graffiti paint disappear again, they will lose the motivation to continue,” explained Councillor Jan Chabr.

What process will be used to remove graffiti?

Prague’s residents will be able to participate in this pilot project by reporting graffiti to the municipality. To facilitate this, the City of Prague has launched a new mobile application called “No Graffiti”.

There, one will be able to view a list of addresses belonging to buildings owned by the capital. What is more, they can use GPS location to select the properties which have been vandalised. After this, they can ask to receive follow up information on the status of their report and what action has been taken.

Once the THMP has received the report, they will visit the site, use a special chemical, and pressure washer to clean the area. Then, they will repair the damaged surface and paint over it. Lastly, they will apply a durable anti-graffiti coat which allows future spray to easily be washed away.

The pilot project began at the beginning of this summer and it is expected to run until autumn. Following this, the municipality will evaluate its results and decide whether to extend the project.