Photocatalytic degradation technology is regarded as a promising technology for dye-contained wastewater treatment due to its superior efficiency and recycling. The key to the implementation of photocatalytic degradation technology is the selection of sunlight-active photocatalyst. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) photocatalyst has been put into a lot of research in the field of organic pollutant degradation because of its low cost, suitable electronic structure and high chemical stability. In this perspective review, we comprehensively discuss the recent advance of photocatalytic dyes degradation over g–C3N4–based materials. The properties, structure and preparation methods of g-C3N4 are briefly introduced. Furthermore, the progress in improving the degradation efficiency of g–C3N4–based photocatalyst is highlighted in the article. The possible pathways and different active species for dyes decomposition are also summarized. We expect this review can provide instructive application of g–C3N4–based catalysts for environmental remediation. Display omitted •The development of dyes degradation based on currently developed g–C3N4–based materials is summarized.•The properties, structure and preparation methods of g-C3N4 are briefly introduced.•Different active species and the possible degradation pathways for dyes degradation are discussed.