Can You Trademark a City Name?

Yes, you may trademark a city name if it is used as a brand name for your products or services.

This information was provided by our founding attorney, Xavier Morales, Esq. 

For example, “NEW ORLEANS” is a registered trademark for a line of doors and window guards. Trademarking a city name does not mean that you own the city name, nor does it mean that you own the city. Trademarking that city’s name will prevent other companies from using the city’s name in association with a product or service similar to yours.

If you wish to trademark a city name, you should contact a trademark attorney to conduct a search of current trademarks. It is possible that someone already owns the trademark for your desired city name as it is very common for local businesses to include these city names in their promotional slogans or business names.

A Current Example

One current example of a trademark that incorporates a city name is "Chicago Bar Shop". This mark was granted in April of 2018, specifically covering:

Providing classes, workshops, seminars and camps in the field of bartending; Providing classes, workshops, seminars and camps in the field of mixology.

Learn More:

The Steps to Getting a City Name Trademark

Step 1: Perform A Comprehensive Search

We will conduct a thorough trademark search to ensure your desired mark doesn’t closely resemble existing registered trademarks. Seeking an attorney's help can aid in identifying both exact matches and "confusingly similar" marks, as they have access to various databases and can discern subtle distinctions.

Step 2: File the Trademark Application

After due diligence, we file a trademark application through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) or its alternative, TEAS Plus. The choice between these two can impact costs and requirements; we'll provide guidance on this decision and help navigate the complexities.

Step 3: Monitor Your Application

Once the application is submitted, expect a waiting period of 4 to 6 months for feedback from the USPTO. While the initial response might be an approval, there's a possibility of receiving an Office Action or denial, but amendments can typically be made and refiled.

Step 4: Finalize Your Registration

Upon application approval, the trademark will be published in the Trademark Official Gazette for 30 days, allowing potential opposition from other companies. If opposed, the case might proceed to the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB). If unopposed, a certificate of registration will be issued, but ongoing maintenance is essential to preserve trademark rights.

Protect Your Mark

Get the trademark protection you need
for your business name, logo, or slogan.

Xavier Morales, Esq.

About the Author

Xavier Morales, Esq.

Mr. Morales founded his trademark law practice in January 2007 with the goal of providing intellectual property expertise to entrepreneurs and businesses around the country. Since then, he has filed more than 6,000 trademarks with the USPTO. You can learn more about Xavier here.

Protect Your Mark

Get the trademark protection you need for your business name, logo, or slogan.

Or call us today

866-618-2517

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Contact

Law Office of Xavier Morales
P.O. BOX 3256
Austin, TX 78764

office: 1-866-618-2517
fax: 1-866-639-4889