What is brand?
Our brand is not just a logo, a visual identify, or a product. It is the personal connection and experience that people associates with Girl Scouts San Diego, including our programs, services, marketing, and reputation.
Why is it important to protect the brand?
It is critical to protect the brand for financial reasons and for the sake of our organization's recognition, reputation, and credibility.
What is copyright?
Copyright is a law that gives the owner of a work (like a photo, song, or written material) the right to say how other people can use it. With copyright, a work can be copied only if the owner gives permission. Copyright laws help Girl Scouts San Diego protect our marketing assets.
The same laws protect the visual and linguistic property of other organizations/companies. Copyright infringement is the use, reproduction, distribution, display, or performance of works protected by copyright law without permission. Do not infringe on copyright!
What does trademark mean?
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others. Logos, photographs, symbols, designs, words, phrases, and even non-traditional elements like sounds, smells, and colors, can be trademarked. Trademarks protect the intellectual property and use of specific ideas and symbols, as well as the trademark owner's brand.
Visit the GSUSA website for detailed information about Girl Scout copyright and trademarks.
What is a servicemark or lockup?
The lockup, or servicemark, is the final form of our logo, with all its elements. Only council names (e.g. Girl Scouts San Diego) and affinity groups (e.g. Cadettes) may be locked into the servicemark. Only GSUSA can create lockups/servicemarks. See the Graphics and Logos section below.
Do I need permission to use badges and other Girl Scout symbols on my website or marketing materials?
Yes! The use of official insignia (all of which are trademarked) is highly restrictive. Please review the copyrights and trademarks FAQs from GSUSA.
Do I need permission to use the Girl Scout logo on my Girl Scout troop/group or service unit website?
Yes! Please work directly with staff for approval and assistance. Troop support staff can assist with troop websites, and service unit support staff can assist with service unit websites.
Do I need permission to use the logo on patches, T-shirts, banners, or promotional materials?
Yes! Complete the Branding Permission Request form. For additional questions, please contact marcomm@sdgirlscouts.org.
