Supporting the Arts through Private Development

San Diego has an art in private development program that requires certain private, non-residential development projects in the city provide a set aside for civic enhancement that equals 0.5 percent to 1 percent of the total building permit valuation. This program is governed by the San Diego Municipal Code and is overseen by the Department of Cultural Affairs. Private developers can satisfy the civic enhancement requirement by integrating artwork into the project, including space in the development that is open and accessible for cultural use, or depositing an in-lieu fee into the City’s Public Art Fund.

Resources for private developers:

• Civic Enhancement Allocation Declaration Form
• Guide to the Civic Enhancement Allocation Requirements for Developers
• Department Instruction - Use of In-Lieu Civic Enhancement Allocations
• San Diego Municipal Code for Art in Private Development