Can I use sports team logos on my website?

In short, you cannot use the logos of the NFL on anything. The logos of the various teams of the NFL are trademarks that are owned by the NFL. As such, the only way to use the trademark of another without liability is with their permission. This permission will normally come in the form of a license.

Do I have to trademark my logo?

By simply having a logo, you have what’s known as a common law trademark for your logo. That means that, without doing anything paperwork-wise, you have the sole legal right to use and amend that logo as you see fit. But without an officially registered trademark, that right isn’t as secure as it could be.

Can you sell sports logos?

Selling a team’s logo or likeness without a license is illegal. This is the general premise: You cannot make money off a sports team without permission from that team.

What is a trademark for professional sports teams?

Trademarks are intellectual property that protect the symbol, name, phrase or graphical depiction of a company. Professional sports teams have these brands created, and then they become trademarked for protection and profit with physical products and merchandise and online intangible items.

Why is it illegal to use NFL team names on merchandise?

It violates trademark laws and often also copyright laws. It may constitute fraud and is often subject to criminal penalties. Tip#4: NFL Licensees, Like NFL Team Owners, Are An Exclusive Club. The NFL has enormous minimums that they require in order to license somebody on their merchandise.

Can a phrase be trademarked?

To trademark any phrase, a registrant must show that it can be used in commerce to identify his or her brand or team. Urban Meyer, a high-profile Ohio State coach, has pursued legal protection of his name and image.

Should high schools trademark their nicknames and mascots?

High schools might be best served by trademarking their nicknames, logos and mascots, and copyrighting all design-related artwork for logos and mascots.