Boy Scouts of America

Answers for Prospective Licensees

When do you need a license from BSA?
If you wish to use the marks, registered words, phrases or insignia used by Boy Scouts of America, you will need to obtain a license in advance from BSA National Council as their sole owner.

Can a local council grant rights for use?
A local council may provide authorization for use of BSA marks, words, phrases, and insignia on administrative materials used only by the council to deliver the Scouting program. These items include:

Items for internal use and administrative, informational or educational purposes:

Stationery (letterhead, envelopes, business cards, etc.)
Council and unit Web sites (where information and education is provided; but not advertising, promotion, or sales of a third-party service, product, or links to the same)
Forms and brochures
Council newsletters
Council annual reports

FOS or other fundraising appeals:

Brochures and letters

All other items require a license from BSA.

How do you apply for a license from BSA?
Please click the Licensing link for specific information about the BSA licensing process.

Is there a limit on the number of BSA Licensed Properties for which a company can apply?
While there is no limit regarding how many BSA Licensed Properties for which a current licensee or applicant may apply, BSA requires that a thorough marketing plan be developed for each licensed property and the products on which it is used.

What are the costs for becoming licensed?
If BSA is interested in your proposal, a license application fee is required at the time you submit your application package. Currently the application fee is $250.00.

How long does it take to complete the licensing process?
The time it takes to complete the licensing process depends on the number of proprietary marks, registered words and phrases, and insignia requested for license and your responsiveness in working with BSA.

In the spirit of fairness, we are unable to accommodate “rush” requests. All requests are treated equally and on a first-in first-out basis. Incomplete applications move to the bottom of the process and work back to the top once the missing information is provided.

Which BSA trademarks are currently available for license?
BSA offers many of its trademarks for license; however, some trademarks are restricted. Please inquire about the use of a specific mark.

Does BSA provide any marketing resources or services to its licensees or retailers?
BSA believes in facilitating communication between retailers and licensees in order to maximize and grow the potential market. To this end, BSA will work to develop relationships and support your efforts.

Do retailers with in-house production capabilities need to be licensed to produce BSA products?
Retailers that also screen or embroider their own products, alter or repackage an existing BSA product, or source the products directly from a related company that is not licensed, must obtain a BSA license. BSA recommends that retailers consider sourcing products from existing licensees prior to seeking a license for in-house production. Please click the Licensing link to learn more about the license application process.

Does the BSA license permit the sale of licensed products in international markets?
At the present time, BSA does not grant international licenses.

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