Thank you for your interest in beautifying San José!  Murals can greatly add to sense of place.

Below are key resources for community members and artists who are interested in creating an artwork on City property, including utility and service boxes. These resources provide detailed information about application requirements, the review process, and best practices for successful project execution.

1. Start by reading the Community Mural Guidelines & Application Requirements (PDF) 
2. Submit a Community Mural Intake Form. Public Art staff will review your project information and provide guidance on the next steps and application requirements.

Once an application is submitted, the review process can take at least 90 days. Some projects may take longer if additional community outreach, design revisions, or a second staff review are needed. Please plan your project timeline accordingly and do not begin work until all required approvals are in place.

Each application is limited to one mural project at one location. A separate application and facilitation fee are required for each additional mural location.

Please note: Effective July 1, 2026, the City Council adopted new Community-Initiated Mural Facilitation Fees (Resolution No. 2026-183).  The fees recover a portion of the City's administrative costs associated with reviewing and facilitating mural projects while preserving access to the program and supporting community-led public art initiatives in San José.

Facilitation Fees

• Utility Box Murals: $150
• Murals on City Property (including walls, buildings, streets, and other surfaces): $500
• Murals on Caltrans Property within the City of San José: $1,500

For questions, please call the City of San José Public Art Program at (408) 793 – 4344 or email PublicArt@sanjoseca.gov.

additional information

• Utility and Service Box Art Treatment Guidelines (PDF)
• Sample Right of Entry Agreement (PDF)