Graffiti and Vandalism Laws in California

March 26, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed

Graffiti and vandalism can have a broad definition in Redwood City, California. At the same time, it may seem like a relatively minor offense or evidence of a bored or misguided teen. However, even a misdemeanor can follow you through your life. If you are facing charges of graffiti and vandalism on your own or in conjunction with other charges, you need a Redwood City criminal defense attorney. 

What Does California Law Consider Graffiti and Vandalism?

Graffiti is considered a type of vandalism, as outlined in the California Penal Code. It may be considered writing, drawing, or painting with supplies such as paint or markers, and it does not matter if the mark is permanent or removable. According to Section 594, vandalism is an action that is both malicious and meets one of the following criteria:

• Defaces with graffiti or other inscribed material.
• Damages.
• Destroys.

A key consideration in addressing alleged graffiti or vandalism laws in California is challenging unauthorized presence and malicious intent. This is often a route our Redwood City criminal defense attorney may investigate as a defense. 

How Does California Regulate Graffiti-Related Materials?

Many states have requirements to keep inhalants or spray paint cans out of the hands of minors. Still, California laws regarding graffiti and vandalism can be so strict that it is illegal to carry graffiti-related materials in some spaces openly. An example may include walking around with spray paint in a public park without explicit permission from the local government. This is the case regardless of your age. 

Additionally, furnishing a minor with these materials is illegal. However, Penal Code Section 594.1 allows exceptions for certain lower quantities and providing materials for use under parental supervision. 

Penalties for Graffiti or Vandalism in Redwood City, California

Vandalism can be charged as a misdemeanor or increased to a felony based on the situation, including whether this is your first charge, related to a hate crime, or the value of the damage you have done. If you are charged and convicted of graffiti or vandalism, the sentencing may include longer periods of confinement, but guidelines start with:

• If the amount of damage is less than $400, you may be confined to county jail for no more than a year and face fines of up to $1,000
• If the damage is more than $400 but less than $10,000, you may face confinement of not more than one year and a fine not to exceed $10,000
• If the damage exceeds $10,000, then you may face confinement of up to one year and up to $50,000 in fines.

The consequences of charges like this can be significant in terms of time and cost. 

In addition to the official sentencing, you may be required to clean up, repair, or replace any of the property you damaged. You may also face additional community service requirements. 

Additionally, suppose you are facing vandalism and related charges. In that case, there are likely others from the same incident, such as burglary or trespassing, making it that much more important to challenge every charge.  

Call a Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

Graffiti and vandalism laws in California are strict, and the penalties for breaking them are often significant. Facing this without an experienced Redwood City criminal defense attorney can cost you time, money, and, potentially, convictions. Experienced attorneys know that investigators may have cut corners during the investigation that violated your rights and will be prepared to challenge every piece of suspicious evidence. 

Contact our Criminal Defense Law Firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help

For more information please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a free consultation.

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500