Free Graffiti Removal by the City of Portland
Graffiti can show up overnight and make a property feel neglected. The City of Portland offers free graffiti removal for some properties, and NWCC’s Humanitarian Team is helping building owners, small businesses, and residents take advantage of it.
As our team patrols the district, they report graffiti they see to the city so it can be cleaned up as quickly as possible. When a property has a current approval form on file, the city can usually move much faster because permission is already in place.
Who Can Get Free Graffiti Removal?
Not all properties are eligible for free cleaning by the city. The program is focused on certain small businesses, residential properties, and nonprofits that meet specific requirements.
To see if your property qualifies and to request services, visit the city’s page:
https://www.portland.gov/bps/graffiti/request-services
If you do qualify, filling out one simple form can make a big difference in how quickly graffiti is removed.
One Simple Application Speeds Up Cleanup
The Graffiti Removal Service Agreement is a one‑year approval form that gives the city permission to remove graffiti from your property.
If you complete this form and email it to the city:
They keep your permission on file for one year.
When graffiti is reported, the city can schedule cleanup right away, without waiting for new authorization.
Our NWCC team can report graffiti for you as they walk the community, and the process will be more streamlined because the approval is already in place.
Download the agreement here:
https://www.portland.gov/bps/graffiti/documents/graffiti-removal-service-agreement/download
If you have questions about the form or the program details, you can contact the city’s graffiti program representative, John Steup, by email: john.steup@portlandoregon.gov.
By taking a few minutes to fill out the application, you help keep your property, and the whole neighborhood, cleaner, safer, and more welcoming.
Stay Connected:Your Voice Matters
Working together as a community helps create a safer environment for everyone who lives, works, and visits the Pearl District.
If you have questions, concerns, or would like assistance with safety recommendations for your property, please contact Chase at chase@nwccpdx.org.
Become a member, renew your membership by contacting Chase McPherson at chase@neccpdx.com.
Visit nwccpdx.org to stay connected, receive updates, and add your voice to the community that made this outcome possible.
