Policies & Documents

The J. Paul Getty Trust has established policies and plans to guide its activities and to promote the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability among its trustees and employees. These policies and plans are revised from time to time and include the following:

The Trust Indenture is the document by which J. Paul Getty created The J. Paul Getty Trust (at the time known as The J. Paul Getty Museum) on December 2, 1953. As stated in the Indenture, J. Paul Getty's purpose in founding the Getty as a California charitable trust was "the diffusion of artistic and general knowledge." The California courts have interpreted and modified the Trust Indenture to contribute broadly to the diffusion of artistic and general knowledge. Currently, Mr. Getty's mission is carried out through four programs: The J. Paul Getty Museum, The Getty Research Institute, The Getty Conservation Institute, and The Getty Foundation. In recognition of the Getty's expanding programs and facilities, the courts also authorized use of the names "The J. Paul Getty Trust" and "The Getty Villa."

The bylaws of The J. Paul Getty Trust provide guidance to the trustees in carrying out the purpose of The Trust, which is the diffusion of artistic and general knowledge. They govern The Trust's operations pertaining to the board of trustees, board committees, officers, and related matters. The bylaws are effective June 1, 2025.