Logos are everywhere. They’re on your morning coffee, your smartphone, even your favorite t-shirt. But when it comes to using those logos—especially someone else’s—things can get a little tricky. There are a lot of myths out there about copyright and logos. Let’s clear up the confusion and find out what you really can and can’t do with a logo.
TL;DR: Logos are protected by copyright and trademark laws. You can’t just use any logo you like, even if it’s for non-commercial use. There are some rare exceptions, like fair use and parody—but these can get complicated fast. When in doubt, ask for permission or consult a legal expert.
First, What’s a Logo and Why Does It Matter?
A logo is a graphic symbol that identifies a company, product, or brand. Think the golden arches (McDonald’s), a swoosh (Nike), or an apple with a bite (Apple Inc.). These images aren’t just decoration—they’re intellectual property. That means they carry value, and the companies that own them want to protect that value. That’s where copyright and trademarks come in.
Myth #1: “It’s OK to Use a Logo If I’m Not Making Money”
False! Even if you’re not profiting, using someone else’s logo can still be a legal problem. Copyright and trademark protections don’t just apply to big corporations trying to stop other big corporations. They apply to everyone. If you’re displaying a logo on a blog, T-shirt, or flyer—even just for fun—it could still be infringement.
Let’s say you put the Nike logo on a birthday cake for your friend’s party. You’re not selling the cake, but if you post it on Instagram and it goes viral, that could be viewed as using Nike’s brand for your own promotion. Shaky ground!
Myth #2: “If I Edit the Logo, I Can Use It”
Still no. Changing a logo doesn’t automatically protect you. The law considers whether the essence of the logo is still recognizable. If it is, you might still be infringing. Even if you rotate it, recolor it, or add funny eyes—it doesn’t necessarily become legal to use.
Pro Tip: Altering a logo can still make a company mad. Especially if the altered version damages their brand reputation. Legal issues aside, a cease-and-desist letter could be headed your way.
Myth #3: “I Found It on Google Images, So It’s Fair Game”
Absolutely not. Google is not a free-use library. Just because a logo pops up in image search doesn’t mean it’s free to use. In fact, it likely means the opposite—it’s on display because it belongs to a popular brand.
- Always check the license of the image.
- Don’t assume public visibility equals public domain.
- It’s safer to use original content or logos you have permission to use.
So, What CAN You Do With a Logo?
There are a few exceptions, but they come with serious rules. Let’s take a look:
1. Fair Use
This is a legal doctrine that allows limited use without permission—but it’s risky. Fair use covers things like commentary, news reporting, or educational purposes. For example:
- A news article showing a company’s logo while reporting on it.
- A teacher using brand logos in a lesson about advertising.
But fair use is judged on a case-by-case basis. Courts will look at factors like:
- Why you used it (commercial vs. educational)
- How much you used (whole logo vs. partial)
- Whether it harms the brand’s market or reputation
2. Parody and Satire
Poking fun at a brand can sometimes qualify as protected speech. A t-shirt spoofing a famous soda logo to say something funny might be okay. But again, courts consider
- Whether there’s a clear joke or social commentary
- And whether someone might confuse your version with the real thing
Satire is legally tricky. Companies often don’t find it funny, even when the law might.
3. With Permission
The safest route? Ask the company directly. Some brands are surprisingly generous, especially for causes they support. Others might say no—but at least you’ll know where you stand. And if they say yes, get it in writing.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
If a brand thinks you’re misusing its logo, they might:
- Send you a formal cease-and-desist letter
- Report your content to a platform (like YouTube or Instagram)
- Take legal action (costly and scary)
The biggest risk isn’t always a courtroom. Sometimes it’s just having your account banned or your website blocked. Yikes!
Wait, Are Logos Copyrighted or Trademarked?
Good question! Here’s the difference:
- Copyright protects original works of art—like a logo’s design.
- Trademark protects branding used to identify and sell products or services.
Most logos are protected by both. That means using them without permission can break more than one law. Double the trouble!
Can You Protect Your Own Logo?
Absolutely! Once you create a logo, it’s automatically protected by copyright. But to go further, you can register it as a trademark. That gives you stronger rights and makes it easier to stop others from using it without permission.
To register a trademark:
- Create a unique and original logo (don’t use clip art!)
- Use it in commerce (on your product, website, etc.)
- File a trademark application with your country’s trademark office
If accepted, you’ll own a registered trademark. That’s like having a legal superhero protecting your brand!
Tips to Stay Out of Trouble
- Don’t use logos without permission, especially on products or merchandise.
- Create your own original designs for branding. Use your creativity!
- Use public domain or royalty-free graphics from trusted sources.
- Ask questions if you’re unsure. A quick consult with a copyright lawyer can save a big headache later.
Final Thoughts
Logos are powerful tools. They tell stories, stir up emotions, and represent years of hard work. That’s why laws exist to protect them. Don’t fall for the myths—stay smart, creative, and respectful when it comes to using logos.
When in doubt, remember the golden rule: Just because you can copy it doesn’t mean you should.
