Can you trademark a map?
Yes, you can trademark a map. If you create a logo that is comprised of a map or an outline of a geographic area, and if you use the logo to sell or promote your products or services, then you may trademark the logo.
Your trademarked map image would not prevent another party from manufacturing or printing a map with similar content, nor will it grant you ownership or control over any lands depicted in the logo. Instead, your trademark will prevent your competitors from using a similar map image to identify and promote their products or services.
If you wish to trademark a map, then the logo design will face the same scrutiny by the Trademark Office that any other logo would. Factors that the Trademark Office will examine include how distinctive and unique your logo is, and whether your logo is too similar to any prior-existing trademarks. In order to ensure that that logo is distinct and original enough to qualify for trademark protection, the Trademark Office will check to make sure that it is different from any existing trademarks.
You should have a thorough trademark search conducted on your behalf to ensure that your logo design is distinct and unique enough to register as a trademark. Contact us today for assistance and guidance on trademarking your logo.
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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.