The anti-graffiti programme launched by Prague 1 last year has proved successful. As a result, the borough has decided to allocate further funding for the removal of unsightly graffiti, stickers, and tags from building facades. New applications for funding can now be submitted until 31 October 2025.
Last autumn, a total of 561 square metres of vandalised surfaces were cleaned as part of the first phase of the anti-graffiti programme. Eighteen applicants received funding totalling CZK 224,000 from the allocated budget of CZK 1 million.
“The removal of graffiti has a positive effect on our cityscape. We have budgeted CZK 1,275,000 for 2025, and I am confident that we will be able to increase this amount further if there is strong interest,” said Tomáš Heres, Deputy Mayor of Prague 1, responsible for real estate and finance.
Prague 1 has also adjusted other aspects of the programme. While last year, the maximum subsidy was limited to CZK 640 per square metre of cleaned area and an applicant could receive a maximum of CZK 20,000 per year, the limits for 2025 have been raised to CZK 700 per square metre and CZK 25,000 per year. This adjustment is based on an evaluation of the first phase, in which the average cost per square metre was close to CZK 700.
Applications for the cleaning subsidy must be submitted via the data box (Datové schránky) of the Municipality of Prague 1.
No later than 40 days after submitting a complete and error-free application, the applicant will receive notification via data mail that the subsidy has been approved. The application form, contract template, and further details on programme conditions can be found on the website at www.praha1.cz (CZ).
Illegal graffiti spraying is a criminal offence under Czech law, regardless of the amount of damage caused. Offenders face a prison sentence of up to one year. Some cities attempt to counteract this form of vandalism by providing legal areas for graffiti artists. However, in Prague 1, there are very few opportunities for this, as almost the entire district is listed as UNESCO-protected cultural heritage. The only legal space available is the famous Lennon Wall on Kampa.
