31 Cities Around The World Where Graffiti Is Legal in 2024

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So, where is graffiti legal you ask? – Here’s 2024’s dopest legal graff spots.

Graffiti, an art form born from the streets, has long been a medium for voices unheard and talents unseen. It’s a visual language that speaks of societal issues, personal expressions, and cultural identities. While it often occupies a contentious space in public opinion, there are cities around the globe where graffiti is not just accepted but celebrated.

These sanctuaries of creative freedom offer artists legal canvases to display their work, transforming urban landscapes into open-air galleries. Which of these cities legalized graffiti? Wondering what countries graffiti is legal in?

We’ll embark on a global tour of these legal graffiti spots, exploring the vibe, recognizing the famous artists and crews that have marked their territory, and guiding you on how to find these colorful corners of the world. Each of these locations tells a story of transformation, where art has turned urban spaces into open-air galleries.

Through the collaboration of artists, communities, and sometimes government intervention, these places have become beacons of creativity and freedom, illustrating the power of graffiti as a force for cultural expression and urban renewal.

Here are the top 31 places around the world where graffiti is legal today, in 2024. Being from Los Angeles, it’s only right that we kick it off with the one and only:

1. Venice Beach, Los Angeles, USA

Venice Beach’s iconic graffiti walls are a legal canvas set against the backdrop of one of Los Angeles’s most bustling and eclectic neighborhoods. Situated along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, these walls offer artists a unique opportunity to showcase their work in a highly visible and historically significant location.

The Venice Beach graffiti walls not only offer a legal outlet for graffiti artists but also serve as a testament to Los Angeles’s ongoing dialogue with its urban artists. By providing a space where art can flourish openly and legally, Venice Beach continues to nurture a vibrant street art scene that attracts visitors from around the world, making it an indispensable part of any discussion on legal graffiti zones.

Nestled along the Pacific Ocean, Venice Beach embodies the free-spirited and artistic ethos of Los Angeles. The Venice Beach graffiti walls, officially known as the Venice Art Walls, have become a symbol of the city’s rich street art culture. Managed by the ICU Art organization in collaboration with the City of Los Angeles, these walls are designated spaces where artists can legally paint and express themselves, contributing to the kaleidoscopic cultural tapestry of the area.

Vibe: Eclectic, vibrant, and perpetually sun-kissed, the Venice Beach graffiti walls pulse with the energy of the countless artists who leave their mark on this iconic destination.
Famous Artists/Crews: Over the years, the walls have hosted works by renowned local and international artists, serving as a proving ground for both emerging talents and established names in the graffiti world. The ever-changing nature of the walls means that on any given day, visitors might encounter a wide array of styles and messages, from intricate murals to powerful political statements.
Directions: The Venice Art Walls are located on the sand of Venice Beach, easily accessible from the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Visitors can find them near the Venice Skatepark, within walking distance of the many shops and eateries that line the boardwalk.

2. 5Pointz – Queens, New York, USA

Known as 5Pointz, this entire city block in Queens, one of NYC’s five boroughs on Long Island, is free to the public and almost entirely covered in graffiti. Each mural gets a specific amount of space and exhibition time based on quality and durability.

5Pointz became an iconic legal graffiti space through the vision of Jonathan Cohen, known as Meres One, who sought to create a graffiti Mecca and obtained permission from the property owner. It stood as a testament to graffiti’s acceptance in the urban landscape until its demolition in 2013.

(Note: 5Pointz has been demolished, but its spirit lives on in NYC’s legal walls.)

Vibe: The epitome of urban art culture, a symbol of community and creativity.
Famous Artists/Crews: Meres One led the charge, turning 5Pointz into an artists’ sanctuary.
Directions: Seek out new legal walls across NYC, like those at the Bushwick Collective.

3. Leake Street Tunnel, London, UK

The Leake Street Tunnel was transformed into a legal graffiti zone following Banksy’s “Cans Festival” in 2008, where he invited street artists to decorate the tunnel. The event and subsequent legal status championed street art as a recognized form of urban expression.

Vibe: An underground gallery pulsating with the city’s creative heartbeat.
Famous Artists/Crews: Banksy, the tunnel’s initiator, among many evolving talents.
Directions: Underneath Waterloo Station, accessible from York Road or Lower Marsh.

4. Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Australia

Tourists and artists love this famous spot. Located on the southern edge of Melbourne, Hosier Lane welcomes all kinds of street art and has even been featured in travel guide advertisements. This place is perfect for graffiti vandals. Don’t get me wrong, graffiti is just as prevalent in Melbourne as it is in Hosier Lane, but just not be advertised as heavily. Artists such as Banksy have even put pieces up there. Afterward, the business owners covered his work with a perspex screen to prevent damage or destruction by others.Hosier Lane’s status as a legal graffiti zone emerged from Melbourne’s progressive approach to street art, recognizing its cultural and tourist value. The city’s policies have fostered a vibrant street art scene, with Hosier Lane at the forefront.

Vibe: A dynamic explosion of color and talent, constantly reinventing itself.
Famous Artists/Crews: Works by locals and international visitors make it a living gallery.
Directions: In the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, off Flinders Street.

5. Bellavista, Santiago, Chile

Bellavista’s transformation into a legal graffiti zone reflects Santiago’s broader acceptance of street art. The neighborhood’s artistic community, along with supportive property owners and the city’s liberal policies, have made it a hub for legal murals and graffiti.

Vibe: A neighborhood canvas showcasing Chile’s rich cultural and artistic diversity.
Famous Artists/Crews: The streets are adorned by various local and international artists.
Directions: Nestled in Santiago, easily explored from Pío Nono Street.

6. Graffiti Park at Castle Hills, Austin, Texas, USA

In March 2010, the HOPE Outdoor Gallery opened at “The Foundation” in downtown Austin, a failed condo development from the 1980’s. A unique outdoor gallery concept in the United States, it became internationally known as the only outdoor art park of its kind in the world thanks to Shepard Fairey and hundreds of participating artists. It was developed to allow muralists, street artists, arts education students, and community groups to display inspirational, positive, and educational outdoor art.

Note: On January 2, 2019, the original location on Baylor St. officially closed. It has since relocated, continuing its mission at Carson Creek Ranch.

Vibe: An ever-changing landscape of artistic expression and vibrant colors.
Famous Artists/Crews: A community of local Texan artists and visiting painters.
Directions: Now at Carson Creek Ranch, check for the latest spot for public art.

7. Mauerpark, Berlin, Germany

Mauerpark, situated along the former Berlin Wall, naturally evolved into a space for legal graffiti. The city’s history and the wall’s symbolism as a canvas for political expression have made it a legal zone for artists.

Vibe: A historic backdrop turned into a canvas for peace, freedom, and creativity.
Famous Artists/Crews: A mix of anonymous and known artists contribute regularly.
Directions: Located in Prenzlauer Berg, accessible via Eberswalder Straße U-Bahn station.

8. Wynwood Walls, Miami, USA

In Wynwood, one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods, where artists have painted legal outdoor murals near art galleries and restaurants, graffiti has become an accepted art form and the subject of a new tour. Wynwood Walls was conceived by the late Tony Goldman in 2009 as a way to revitalize the Wynwood neighborhood. By inviting artists to create large-scale murals, Goldman transformed the area into a legal, curated street art museum.

Vibe: An industrial district transformed into a vibrant exhibition of street art.
Famous Artists/Crews: Shepard Fairey, Tristan Eaton, and more have featured here.
Directions: In the Wynwood neighborhood, off NW Second Avenue.

9. Stavanger, Norway

Stavanger’s status as a legal graffiti zone owes much to the NuArt Festival, which began in 2001. The festival’s success in integrating street art into the cityscape led to a more accepting attitude toward legal graffiti spaces.

Vibe: A coastal city turned into a thought-provoking gallery of street art.
Famous Artists/Crews: Hosts of the NuArt Festival, with artists like ROA gracing its walls.
Directions: Spread throughout Stavanger, the NuArt Festival offers maps for exploration.

10. Lodz, Poland

The Urban Forms Gallery initiative in Lodz turned the city into a legal canvas for muralists and graffiti artists. By collaborating with property owners and the city government, Urban Forms has legitimized street art in Lodz.

Vibe: A citywide canvas showcasing the transformative power of murals.
Famous Artists/Crews: Aryz, Vhils, and the Etam Cru duo are just a few who’ve adorned its buildings.
Directions: Citywide, with a high concentration in the center. The Urban Forms Gallery provides locations.

11. Rue Dénoyez, Paris, France

France has an abundance of legal tagging sites located all over the country. Keep an eye out for some of the local graffiti crews, as some can get a bit territorial and won’t back down. Rue Dénoyez’s legal status emerged from its long history as an artists’ enclave. The city’s tolerance and the street’s cultural significance have allowed it to become a recognized space for graffiti and street art.

Vibe: A lively street where art flows as freely as the conversations of its onlookers.
Famous Artists/Crews: A rotation of local and international artists keeps it fresh.
Directions: Located in the Belleville district, easily reachable by Metro Belleville.

12. Toronto, Canada

Toronto’s Graffiti Alley became a legal graffiti zone as part of the city’s Graffiti Management Plan, which aims to balance the promotion of street art with property rights, recognizing graffiti’s role in urban culture.

Vibe: A maze of alleys offering a kaleidoscope of styles and messages.
Famous Artists/Crews: The Laneway Project supports a wide array of artists and crews.
Directions: Graffiti Alley runs south of Queen Street West from Spadina Avenue to Portland Street.

13. Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá has embraced street art, with legal zones emerging through a combination of city policies and community advocacy. The city recognizes the cultural value of street art, leading to legal spaces like the Distrito Graffiti.

Vibe: A city canvas reflecting political, social, and cultural narratives through vibrant murals.
Famous Artists/Crews: Artists like DJ Lu and Guache have contributed to its rich tapestry.
Directions: Explore the La Candelaria neighborhood for a concentrated experience.

14. Valparaiso, Chile

Valparaiso’s open approach to street art, combined with initiatives by artists and cultural organizations, has fostered legal graffiti zones throughout the city, celebrating its rich artistic heritage.

Vibe: A port city where every wall tells a story, bursting with color and life.
Famous Artists/Crews: INTI and Charquipunk are among the prominent names.
Directions: Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are filled with street art.

15. Zurich, Switzerland

Originally a lakeside silk mill is run independently by artists and sanctioned by the city. Today, this alternative cultural epicenter is one of the few places in this city where graffiti art isn’t just legal. It’s encouraged.

Zurich’s legal graffiti zones, such as the Rote Fabrik Cultural Center, result from the city’s recognition of street art as a vibrant form of cultural expression supported by both the government and local communities.

Vibe: An unexpected urban canvas, blending Swiss precision with creative freedom.
Famous Artists/Crews: Legal walls around the city host a variety of Swiss and international artists.
Directions: Freilager-Platz is a notable spot, accessible by public transport.

16. Burghausen, Germany

In the picturesque town of Burghausen, nestled close to the Austrian border, stands an impressive testament to the world of street art: a 150-meter-long and 8-meter-high graffiti wall. This expansive canvas is a beacon for artists far and wide, inviting them to bring their spray cans, paint, and boundless creativity to contribute to its ever-evolving facade. Burghausen’s graffiti wall stands as a monumental canvas that not only beautifies the urban environment but also fosters a sense of community among artists. It’s a place where the art is as dynamic as the people who create it, continually reshaped by the imaginations and talents of those who leave their mark.

Vibe: The wall in Burghausen is a symbol of artistic freedom and expression, offering a unique blend of styles and narratives that capture the diversity of the graffiti community. Its welcoming nature ensures a continuously fresh and vibrant display of artistry.
Famous Artists/Crews: While it attracts a range of artists, from local talents to those visiting from across the globe, the wall is known more for its inclusivity and the collective patchwork of creativity it represents rather than for individual names.
Directions: Situated in the southeast of Germany, close to the Austrian border, the graffiti wall is accessible to anyone visiting Burghausen. It’s an inviting destination for those exploring the region’s rich cultural landscape.

17. Christchurch, New Zealand

Following the 2011 earthquake, Christchurch embraced street art as part of its rebuilding effort. Projects like the RISE Festival have helped legitimize graffiti, turning the city into a canvas for recovery and expression.

Vibe: A city reborn from rubble, using art as a medium of healing and expression.
Famous Artists/Crews: The city’s streets feature works by local and international artists alike.
Directions: The city center and surrounding areas are dotted with murals, easily explored on foot.

18. Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen, Denmark

Christiania’s unique status as an autonomous neighborhood has made it a natural legal zone for graffiti and street art, reflecting the community’s values of freedom and creativity.

Vibe: An autonomous neighborhood where freedom and creativity reign supreme.
Famous Artists/Crews: The work is as diverse as the community, with both known and anonymous contributors.
Directions: Located in Christianshavn, it’s a short walk from the city center.

19. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan, offers a unique environment for street art due to its legal gray area concerning graffiti. This ambiguity has made the city an attractive canvas for graffiti artists worldwide. The local police’s approach, focusing on property owner complaints and actual damage, fosters a somewhat lenient atmosphere for artists to express themselves. In Taipei, the interplay between legal ambiguity and artistic freedom results in a continually evolving street art scene, adding layers of color and commentary to the city’s streets and making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and graffiti artists alike.

Vibe: Taipei’s street art scene thrives in this legal limbo, creating a vibrant and dynamic urban landscape where artists push the boundaries of traditional and contemporary styles.
Famous Artists/Crews: The city attracts a diverse mix of local talent and international artists, contributing to a rich tapestry of visual expression across its districts.
Directions: Taipei’s street art can be found throughout the city, with notable concentrations in areas like Ximending and the walls around Taipei Cinema Park. These locations are easily accessible by Taipei’s efficient public transportation system.

20. Stockholm, Sweden

Areas like Snösätra Wall of Fame became legal graffiti zones through grassroots efforts by the street art community, eventually gaining recognition and support from the Stockholm city government.

Vibe: An emerging scene where cold walls are warmed by bursts of color and imagination.
Famous Artists/Crews: Snösätra Wall of Fame is a highlight, featuring numerous Swedish and international artists.
Directions: The district of Snösätra, with the Wall of Fame as a focal point, is accessible by public transport.

21. Asbury Park, New Jersey, USA

The Wooden Walls Project, initiated by local artists and supported by the city, turned Asbury Park’s boardwalk into a legal space for murals, contributing to the area’s cultural and economic revitalization.

Vibe: A seaside town where music and art collide, creating a unique cultural landscape.
Famous Artists/Crews: The Wooden Walls Project has invited artists like Shepard Fairey to contribute.
Directions: Along the boardwalk, with murals scattered throughout the area.

22. Kreuzberg, Berlin, Germany

Kreuzberg’s legal graffiti zones reflect Berlin’s overall progressive stance on street art. The district’s vibrant cultural scene and historical significance have made it a legal canvas for artists.

Vibe: A district that wears its heart on its walls, showcasing the city’s rebellious spirit.
Famous Artists/Crews: Known for iconic pieces by artists like Blu and Victor Ash.
Directions: Wander around Schlesisches Tor for a dense concentration of street art.

23. Bristol, UK

Bristol’s legal graffiti zones, including the famous Stokes Croft, are a testament to the city’s embrace of its street art culture, championed by artists like Banksy and supported by the community and local government.

Vibe: The birthplace of Banksy and a canvas for the world’s most renowned street artists.
Famous Artists/Crews: Banksy, Inkie, and 3D have roots here.
Directions: Stokes Croft and City Road are hotspots for street art.

24. Pilsen, Chicago, USA

Pilsen became a hub for legal street art through community initiatives and the support of local property owners, reflecting the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit.

Vibe: A neighborhood that tells the stories of its residents through bold and beautiful murals.
Famous Artists/Crews: Local artists and community groups lead the charge.
Directions: Start at 16th Street and explore the murals along the way.

25. Sydhavnen, Copenhagen, Denmark

Sydhavnen in Copenhagen is renowned for its hall of fame wall, a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant street art scene. This iconic spot is celebrated for hosting large-scale and complex graffiti pieces, drawing both artists and visitors to its dynamic display of creativity. The hall of fame wall in Sydhavnen stands as a testament to Copenhagen’s embrace of street art, providing a space where the transient nature of graffiti is celebrated, and artists’ works are given a platform for widespread admiration.

Vibe: The area pulses with artistic energy, offering a constantly changing gallery of street art that captures the imagination of all who visit. Its popularity ensures that new works receive significant exposure, even though the lifespan of each piece may be short.
Famous Artists/Crews: Sydhavnen attracts a wide range of talent, from local Danish artists to international names, all seeking to leave their mark on this prestigious wall.
Directions: Located near the Sydhavnen area, the hall of fame wall is easily accessible by Copenhagen’s public transport, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts exploring the city.

26. Sydney, Australia

Sydney’s designated graffiti areas, like May Lane, have been established through collaborations between artists, communities, and local councils, recognizing street art’s contribution to the urban landscape.

Vibe: From beachside walls to urban laneways, Sydney’s street art scene is as diverse as its landscape.
Famous Artists/Crews: May Lane and Bondi Beach showcase works by local talents and visiting artists.
Directions: May Lane in St Peters and the Bondi Beach promenade are prime spots.

27. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s Galeria de Arte Urbana (GAU) project and supportive city policies have fostered legal graffiti zones, highlighting the city’s vibrant street art scene and cultural openness.

Vibe: A city where ancient walls meet contemporary expressions, creating a dialogue between past and present.
Famous Artists/Crews: Vhils and Bordalo II have left their marks on the city’s landscape.
Directions: GAU manages several legal spaces throughout the city, with Bairro Alto and Graça being key areas.

28. Dunedin, New Zealand

The Dunedin Street Art initiative, supported by the city council and local businesses, has turned the city into a legal showcase for national and international muralists.

Vibe: A southern city that has embraced street art as a form of urban renewal and beautification.
Famous Artists/Crews: The city’s street art trail features local and international artists.
Directions: The street art trail covers the city center, with maps available online.

29. Athens, Greece

Athens has seen the legalization of specific graffiti zones as part of broader efforts to manage and embrace street art, reflecting the city’s ancient and modern cultural layers.

Vibe: Ancient city walls become canvases for reflecting on Greece’s turbulent present and rich past.
Famous Artists/Crews: Works by iNO and WD (Wild Drawing) stand out.
Directions: Psiri and Gazi neighborhoods are laden with art and easily explored on foot.

30. Warsaw, Poland: Topiel Street

Topiel Street in Warsaw stands as a beacon for street art in Poland, offering a legal canvas for graffiti writers and stencil artists. This area showcases Warsaw’s welcoming attitude towards street art, where artists freely express themselves without interference from local authorities.

Vibe: Creatively vibrant and unrestricted, it’s a hub where art continually evolves, reflecting the city’s dynamic cultural pulse.
Famous Artists/Crews: A diverse array of emerging and established artists, constantly refreshing the street’s visual landscape.
Directions: Centrally located, Topiel Street is easily reachable by public transport or on foot, making it an essential stop for art enthusiasts exploring Warsaw.

31. Tesnov, Prague

Tesnov in Prague is a celebrated spot within the local street art community, recognized for its legal tagging opportunities. Located conveniently next to the Florenc metro station, it’s a space where artists can work under the watchful glow of street lamps, ensuring safety and visibility. Tesnov stands out as a prime example of how urban spaces can be transformed into creative outlets, promoting legal street art and contributing to the cultural tapestry of Prague.

Vibe: Tesnov is acknowledged for its welcoming atmosphere, where the art of tagging is practiced openly and legally, embodying Prague’s rich artistic spirit.
Famous Artists/Crews: While Tesnov attracts a variety of artists, its essence lies in the community and camaraderie it fosters among local and visiting graffiti enthusiasts.
Directions: Situated right next to the Florenc metro station, Tesnov is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience Prague’s street art scene.

Each of these locations tells a story of transformation, where art has turned urban spaces into open-air galleries. Through the collaboration of artists, communities, and sometimes government intervention, these places have become beacons of creativity and freedom, illustrating the power of graffiti as a force for cultural expression and urban renewal.

Street art transcends the act of painting on a wall; it’s a dialogue between the artist and the city, a narrative woven into the fabric of urban spaces. Wondering where has graffiti always been completely legal? Each of these 30+ locations offers a unique story, a different perspective on the world through the eyes of its artists.

Whether you’re a graffiti aficionado, an artist seeking inspiration, or a traveler curious about the world’s urban canvases, these spots promise a journey into the heart of contemporary culture. As the global appreciation for street art continues to grow, these locations stand as monuments to the creativity, resilience, and spirit of communities worldwide.

They remind us that art has the power to transform spaces, influence perceptions, and unite people across diverse backgrounds. This guide is an invitation to explore, engage with, and be inspired by the world’s most vibrant street art scenes.