Shopify theme licensing documentation

This document outlines the policies and procedures related to Shopify theme licenses, including purchasing, transferring, and managing licensed themes. Adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance with Shopify’s terms and protects your store from disruptions.

When you purchase a theme from the Shopify Theme Store, the license is tied exclusively to the store where the purchase was made. Licensed themes include support and updates, while unlicensed themes may result in account restrictions.

Important: Shopify themes are only available for purchase on the Shopify Theme Store. Avoid acquiring themes from unauthorized sources to ensure you receive updates and support.

For more details, refer to Shopify’s Terms of Service.

If notified of an unlicensed theme or upon receiving a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) notice, take one of the following actions:

1. Purchase the theme:
   • Buy the theme for the store where it will be used.
2. Transfer the theme:
   • If the theme was previously purchased for a different store, you may transfer it (see transfer requirements).
3. Provide license information:
   • Submit proof of a valid license. Follow the instructions in your email notification to clarify the situation.

Note: Failing to address a DMCA takedown notice by the specified date can lead to disruptions in your store.

Caution: Confirm that the email regarding the DMCA notice originates from an official Shopify email address to avoid falling victim to scams. Learn more about Shopify’s copyright policy.

Themes purchased from the Shopify Theme Store can be transferred between stores if the following criteria are met:

• Both stores share the same account owner email.
• The account owner is the registered owner of both stores.
• The original store will be permanently closed after the transfer.
• Caution: A theme can only be used on one store at a time.

Follow these steps to transfer a theme from one store to another:

1. Contact Shopify Support:
   • Since themes purchased from the Shopify Theme Store involve account ownership and billing, you must reach out to Shopify Support to initiate the transfer process.
2. Download the theme file:
   • In the Shopify admin, go to Online Store > Themes.
   • Next to the theme you want to transfer, click Actions > Download theme file.
   • An email containing the file will be sent to you.
3. Download the file from the email:
   • Save the theme file onto your device.
4. Remove the theme from the original store:
   • Delete all instances of the theme, including renamed copies. Add a free theme if necessary.
5. Close the original store:
   • Permanently close the store where the theme was initially purchased. The closed store cannot be reopened.
6. Upload the theme to the new store:
   • In the new store’s Shopify admin, go to Online Store > Themes, and click Add theme > Upload zip file.
   • Refer to Shopify’s guide on adding themes for more details.
7. Purchase the theme for the new store:
   • It's required, buy the theme again to ensure compliance.
8. Request a refund:
   • Contact Shopify Support to request a refund for the original purchase. Refunds are issued based on the original purchase price, regardless of current pricing.

Downloaded themes remain subject to Shopify’s licensing terms. Modifications or redistribution of themes outside Shopify’s ecosystem is prohibited. Unlicensed usage may result in penalties or account restrictions.

• Support and updates: Only licensed themes are eligible for Shopify’s support and feature updates.
• Legal compliance: Always address copyright notices promptly to avoid disruptions.