Can I use a MLB licensed logo if I make a few alterations to it?
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Can I use a MLB licensed logo if I make a few alterations to it?
I have a dance company that has asked me to design them shirts to wear to a performance at a MLB game. They want the team’s name and logo on the shirt. I run a small biz from my home, on the side, and usually do small customized orders. This will be a dance team maybe 25 members or so, and will be in front of 1000s of people. I just wanted to know that if I use their logo, and make some minor changes, will that protect me from being in violation of their MLB logo copyright?
Asked on August 17, 2016 under Business Law, Missouri
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
In a word--no. You are not allowed to create derivative or adapted (e.g. altered or modified) works from someone's copyrighted material. You also may not use a recognizable version of someone else's trademarked logo to market or advertise some other business or produce or service. What you propose could very likely be a breach of copyright and/or trademark law.
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