In Norwood, Ohio, artistic murals are currently forbidden. This surprising reality is due to an overly broad Sign Code which was adopted in 2017, combined with strict enforcement and an absence of any definitions or processes around artistic murals within the Codified Ordinances.

There is ample evidence both regionally and across the globe that murals play an important role in the revitalization of cities - that along with investment in the arts comes more investment and pride in a community, more municipal tax revenue, and more opportunities for creative place-making. 

The purpose of this petition is to gather and signify community support for a common-sense mural ordinance which would bring the City of Norwood up to the standards shared by virtually all of the surrounding communities. Norwood and its residents should enjoy the same freedoms of artistic expression and the same benefits of economic development, community growth, and urban beautification as our neighbors. As citizens of Norwood, we support the creation and adoption of a mural ordinance which recognizes these rights and affirms these shared values.

As a convenience to the Norwood City Council, please leave a comment on the petition with your Norwood ward (1-4), or city of residence. It would be very helpful to show strong support among residents in particular.