Clean City Law

This article uncovers the hidden history and impacts of a groundbreaking legislation passed in São Paulo, Brazil, known as the "Clean City Law." The law banned almost all forms of outdoor advertising in the city, transforming the urban landscape and sparking intense debates about public space, commercialism, and aesthetics. The article delves into the motivations behind the legislation, including the desire to reclaim the city for its citizens and reduce visual pollution. It explores the effects of the ban on both the advertising industry and the city's visual identity. Ultimately, the article highlights how the Clean City Law has had a profound impact on São Paulo's urban environment and serves as an example of how a city can challenge the dominance of advertising and prioritize the needs and preferences of its residents.