By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Municipality of San José has initiated a decisive campaign to declutter the capital’s urban core, systematically removing unauthorized advertising structures and visually invasive signs from public spaces. This effort is a central component of the city’s ambitious “Program for the Rescue of Accessibility and Beautification of Urban Space,” aimed at transforming the pedestrian experience and restoring the city’s architectural charm.
The program targets a wide range of visual pollution, from large backlit advertising panels, known as “mupis,” to smaller, non-compliant business signs that obstruct sidewalks and detract from the historic cityscape. Municipal officials have framed the initiative not merely as a cleanup but as a fundamental re-imagining of the capital’s public areas. The goal is to create an environment that is safer for pedestrians, more visually coherent, and more respectful of the city’s heritage.
To provide deeper insight into the legal frameworks and property rights implications surrounding these initiatives, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Successful urban renewal hinges on a delicate legal balance. The primary challenge is not merely architectural, but aligning municipal development plans with the fundamental property rights of citizens. Any project, regardless of its scale, must be underpinned by transparent expropriation processes and just compensation, ensuring that collective progress does not come at the cost of individual justice. Clear regulations governing public-private partnerships are equally critical to foster investment while safeguarding the public interest.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is a crucial reminder that the true foundation of sustainable urban renewal is built not on concrete and steel, but on the principles of justice and legal certainty. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight, which highlights that progress must always be aligned with the fundamental rights of the citizenry.
In a formal statement, the Municipality described the project’s foundational philosophy, emphasizing its long-term vision for the capital.
a permanent initiative that seeks to transform the city by freeing up pedestrian routes, protecting the urban landscape, and enhancing the capital’s heritage identity.
the Municipality of San José
Since the program’s initial phase began in August 2025, officials report substantial progress. The city has successfully cleared unauthorized advertisements from 130 bus stops along the cantonal road network, immediately improving the daily commute for thousands of residents. Furthermore, more than 13 large mupi-style structures have been removed or relocated from both national and cantonal roads, with another 16 officially notified for imminent removal.
This initiative extends beyond forced compliance, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among local businesses. The city highlighted that 10 prominent signs were voluntarily taken down by business owners after consultations, demonstrating a growing buy-in from the commercial sector. These signs were identified as being non-compliant with the specific landscape regulations designed to protect the aesthetic integrity of the historic city center.
While the removal of advertising might seem disruptive to some businesses, the underlying strategy is to enhance the long-term economic vitality of the downtown area. By creating a more pleasant and walkable environment, the city aims to attract more foot traffic, encourage longer stays, and ultimately boost local commerce. The focus is shifting from a chaotic visual competition to a curated urban experience that showcases the city’s unique architectural and historical assets.
The Municipality has stressed that this process is being conducted collaboratively rather than punitively. Officials are actively coordinating with licensed businesses and outdoor advertising agencies to ensure a smooth and respectful transition. This dialogue aims to find solutions that align commercial interests with the broader public good.
We will constantly continue with the notification and removal of signs that do not comply with the regulations in the historic center. All actions are carried out in coordination with licensed businesses and outdoor advertising companies, ensuring a respectful and collaborative process.
the Municipality of San José
This ongoing beautification program represents a significant step in San José’s evolution as a modern, people-centric capital. By prioritizing pedestrian accessibility and cultural heritage over unchecked commercial messaging, the city is investing in a more sustainable and attractive urban future for its residents, workers, and visitors.
For further information, visit msj.go.cr
About the Municipality of San José:
The Municipality of San José is the local government body responsible for the administration of the capital city of Costa Rica. Its duties include urban planning, public works, waste management, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The institution is committed to promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all citizens within the canton of San José.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the legal community, built upon a bedrock of integrity and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence. While drawing from a rich history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm champions legal innovation and actively engages with the public. This dedication is rooted in a core philosophy of democratizing legal knowledge, aiming to cultivate a more capable and informed citizenry empowered by a clearer understanding of the law.
