Hackney Council's Cabinet has approved a new policy aimed at providing a more consistent and clearer approach to managing graffiti and street art across the borough. The policy, adopted at a meeting on Monday, July 20, 2026, distinguishes between graffiti and street art, with a priority placed on the swift removal of offensive, discriminatory, or hate-based content.
Under the new guidelines, offensive graffiti will be prioritised for removal within 24 hours of being reported, where possible. The policy defines graffiti as 'Any markings, drawings, or writings on public or private property that have not been authorised by the property owner or relevant authority. This includes tagging, personal messaging, or other forms of expression that do not align with the character or intended use of a space.'
Criteria for Offensive Content
The policy outlines 'Objective Criteria' for content that warrants immediate removal, including:
- Content that incites violence, promotes hate speech or directly threatens the safety or well-being of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as age, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, disability or political affiliation.
- Explicit depictions or messages of violence, gore or graphic imagery that may cause distress or trauma to viewers, especially children or vulnerable individuals.
- Symbols, slogans, or imagery associated with historically oppressive or discriminatory ideologies, movements or regimes, such as symbols of hate or those from proscribed organisations.
- Derogatory language or slurs targeting specific demographic groups, perpetuating stereotypes or reinforcing systemic discrimination.
- Unauthorised markings, slogans or imagery that convey messages related to protests that disrupt public order, or obstruct access to public or private property, or could result in safety risks, or create a significant visual impact without prior approval or consent from relevant authorities.
Distinguishing Street Art
Street art is defined as 'Murals, paintings, or other artistic expressions in public spaces that may be commissioned, permitted, but can be unauthorised.' Decisions regarding the removal of street art will be made on a case-by-case basis, considering its location, content, and impact on the community. The policy aims to balance artistic expression with the need to maintain clean and safe public spaces, and encourages dialogue between residents, artists and community groups to promote responsible street art initiatives.
Reporting and Responsibilities
The policy outlines clear reporting mechanisms for residents and property owners. For graffiti on public buildings, highways, Hackney Housing estates, parks, green spaces, or street furniture, residents can call 020 8356 6688 or report online via the Council's Report a Problem page.
For graffiti on private property, removal is the responsibility of the owner(s). Residents should first contact their housing office or property owner to arrange removal. The Council may arrange free graffiti removal for private property if it is no more than 2 metres high from the ground and accessible from the road or a car park, subject to a disclaimer signed by the property owner. For business or commercial property owners, graffiti removal services can be arranged through the Council at a cost.
Property owners may be requested to remove graffiti from their premises, and if they fail to do so, the Council's enforcement teams may use statutory powers to encourage removal.
Decision-Making and Appeals
Decisions on graffiti and street art removal will be made by the Council's Environmental Services Team, in consultation with relevant departments such as Regeneration, Street Scene, Parks & Green Spaces, Culture and Heritage, Policy & Strategy Depts, and ward councillors, where appropriate. Oversight and governance will be provided through regular reviews to ensure consistency and accountability. Community partners will be engaged as necessary.
Removal of street art will be considered only if it meets the removal criteria, and only with the permission of the property owner or lawful authority. Charges may apply. The policy was developed following internal consultations with various council departments, including Streetscene, Planning, and Regeneration, and aims to ensure decisions are consistent, legitimate, and aligned with the council's commitments to community cohesion and artistic expression.
Delegated authority has been given to the Director of Environment & Climate Change to approve any future minor amendments to the policy. Further details can be found in the Public reports pack Monday 20-Jul-2026 18.00 Cabinet.
