Community Development Agency
www.santa-ana.org/cd
Item # 10
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Staff Report
May 5, 2026
TOPIC: Public Art and Preservation Policy
AGENDA TITLE
Public Art and Preservation Policy
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Receive and File the Public Art and Preservation Policy.
GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES: No
DISCUSSION
Public art plays a vital role in shaping the identity, character, and cultural vibrancy of the City of Santa Ana (City). Murals, sculptures, installations, and other forms of artistic expression activate public spaces, celebrate the community’s cultural heritage, and enhance the visual environment for residents and visitors.
The City Council previously adopted the Arts & Culture Master Plan, which includes recommendations to establish a formal public art program and policy (Goal 8.1). As the City continues to invest in placemaking, economic development, and capital improvements, a comprehensive framework is needed to guide the planning, commissioning, installation, and long-term stewardship of public art.
The proposed Public Art and Preservation Policy establishes this framework and ensures that public art projects are implemented in a consistent, transparent, and responsible manner.
On March 19, 2026, the Arts & Culture Commission reviewed the proposed policy and voted unanimously to recommend its approval by the City Council. Staff also solicited and have incorporated community input through written comments and public participation at the Commission meeting.
Policy Purpose
The Public Art and Preservation Policy is an internal administrative framework that provides clear guidance to City staff on the planning, evaluation, installation, maintenance, and preservation of public art throughout the City.
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The policy establishes consistent standards to ensure that public art reflects Santa Ana’s cultural identity while meeting requirements for safety, durability, and compatibility with the surrounding environment. It also outlines procedures for the ongoing care and conservation of public art, supporting the City’s long-term stewardship of its cultural assets.
Public Art Guidelines
The policy establishes criteria for the design and installation of public art. Eligible artwork may include murals, sculptures, mosaics, and other approved media installed in appropriate public locations.
All installations must utilize durable materials appropriate to the site; maintain safe pedestrian and vehicular access; and comply with applicable building, planning, and safety regulations. Projects involving structural modifications or use of the public right- of-way require appropriate permits and approvals prior to installation.
The policy also includes an evaluation framework that prioritizes artistic quality, cultural relevance, feasibility, durability, and alignment with City goals. Preference is given to artists who live, work, or demonstrate meaningful engagement within Santa Ana.
Historic Preservation Considerations
Public art proposed on properties listed on or eligible for the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties may require review by the Historic Resources Commission. This review ensures that installations do not damage historic features or compromise the integrity of designated resources. This process supports compatibility between new public art and the City’s historic character.
Public Engagement
Community engagement is a key component of the public art process. The policy encourages outreach efforts such as community meetings, workshops, surveys, and partnerships, as appropriate for each project. Artists may be required to incorporate community input to ensure that artworks reflect local history, culture, and identity.
Maintenance and Preservation
The policy establishes procedures for the long-term stewardship of public art on City- owned property. The City will maintain an inventory of public art assets and conduct periodic inspections to ensure artworks remain safe, structurally sound, and visually preserved.
Maintenance activities include monitoring structural integrity, surface conditions, protective coatings, and potential vandalism or environmental damage. When feasible, Public Art and Preservation Policy
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the City will consult with the original artist prior to major conservation or restoration efforts to preserve artistic intent.
De-accession and Relocation
The policy establishes criteria and procedures for the relocation or removal of public art when necessary. Circumstances may include safety concerns, irreparable deterioration, excessive maintenance costs, site redevelopment, or the end of an artwork’s intended lifespan. All deaccession or relocation decisions will follow a formal review process and be documented in the City’s Public Art Inventory.
Legal Protections
The policy acknowledges artist rights under applicable federal and state laws, including the Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) and the California Art Preservation Act (CAPA).
The City will comply with all notification and legal requirements prior to the alteration, relocation, or removal of protected artwork.
Roles and Responsibilities
The policy establishes coordination among City departments to support successful implementation:
Community Development Agency:
Serves as the lead entity for public art projects along with the initiating City department and supports the Arts and Culture Commission. Public Works Agency:
Provides technical guidance on installation feasibility and assists with maintenance of art within City facilities.
Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency:
Oversees public art projects within City parks.
Planning and Building Agency:
Provides support for historic preservation review and ensures compliance with planning and building regulations.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
EXHIBIT(S)
1. Public Art and Preservation Policy
2. Public Comments Received
Submitted By: Michael L. Garcia, Executive Director, Community Development Agency Approved By: Alvaro Nuñez, City Manager