Using DC Comics on Etsy: Trademark Guide for Sellers

High Risk

Last updated: January 15, 2025

DC Comics, owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, enforces trademarks on all its characters including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Justice League. The DC logo and character designs are aggressively protected.

What You Can Do

  • Sell authentic licensed DC Comics merchandise you legally purchased
  • Use "DC Comics" in tags only when selling genuine licensed products
  • Create original character designs that are not substantially similar
  • Sell supplies (e.g., fabric) that happen to be officially licensed

What You Cannot Do

  • Reproduce DC Comics character designs, silhouettes, or catchphrases on products
  • Use DC Comics names or imagery in listing titles, tags, or photos without a license
  • Sell fan art or "inspired by" items that feature recognizable DC Comics elements
  • Imply any official license, sponsorship, or partnership with DC Comics rights holders

Safe Alternatives

  • Design original characters with a unique style that do not resemble protected ones
  • Use generic descriptive terms (e.g., "cute cat character") instead of character names
  • Create original illustrations inspired by a style or genre rather than a specific character

Check your listings for DC Comics trademark issues

Scan your listings for policy violations, trademark risks, and compliance issues before they become takedowns.

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Scan your listings for policy violations, trademark risks, and compliance issues before they become takedowns.