A Landscaper's Guide to Intellectual Property

As a business owner, it's important to understand the intellectual property (IP) rights available to protect your original creations from being used without your permission. This includes your brand name, logo, website, and even unique inventions.

Here’s a look at three key types of IP protection:

• Copyright

  Copyrights protect original works of authorship, such as your logo design, website content, marketing photos, and articles. This legal right is automatic and applies as soon as you create a tangible work, ensuring that only you can use, reproduce, and distribute it.

• Trademark

  Trademarks protect your brand identity. This includes your business name, logo, and slogans that distinguish your company from the competition. Registering a trademark helps customers recognize your business and prevents others from using a similar mark that could cause confusion.

• Patent

  A patent protects new and useful inventions. If you create a unique tool, a piece of equipment, or a novel process in the course of your landscaping business, a patent gives you the exclusive right to make, use, and sell that invention, protecting you from competitors who might try to copy it.

Understanding these different types of intellectual property can help you protect your business from outside competition. To ensure your business is properly protected, it is always best to do your research and consult with a qualified IP attorney.