Essential Legal Notices Every Business Website in California Must Have

A business website is more than just a digital storefront—it’s also a legal entity that must comply with California’s strict regulations. Failure to include the proper legal notices can lead to liability issues, fines, and customer disputes. Below are the essential legal notices every business website should display.

1. Privacy Policy

Under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), businesses that collect personal data must clearly disclose their data collection, usage, and sharing policies. Your privacy policy should include:

• What information is collected (e.g., names, emails, payment details).
• How the information is used and shared.
• User rights regarding their data, including opt-out options.
• Contact details for privacy concerns.

2. Terms and Conditions (Terms of Use)

A Terms and Conditions page establishes the legal framework for using your website. While not legally required, it protects your business by outlining:

• User responsibilities and prohibited activities.
• Intellectual property rights and copyright disclaimers.
• Limitations of liability.
• Dispute resolution processes.

3. Disclaimer

If your website provides professional advice (legal, medical, financial, etc.), a disclaimer helps limit liability by stating that:

• Content is for informational purposes only.
• No attorney-client, doctor-patient, or financial advisor relationship is formed.
• Users should consult professionals before making decisions.

4. Cookie Policy & Consent Notice

Websites that use cookies for tracking or marketing must comply with California’s privacy laws. Your cookie policy should explain:

• What types of cookies are used (e.g., essential, analytics, third-party).
• How users can manage or disable cookies.
• The purpose of data collection via cookies.

5. Accessibility Statement

California businesses must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ensure their website is accessible to users with disabilities. An accessibility statement should include:

• Commitment to website accessibility.
• Contact information for accessibility concerns.
• Efforts made to improve compliance with WCAG standards.

6. Refund and Return Policy (If Applicable)

If your business sells goods or services online, California law requires a clear refund and return policy to be displayed. It should cover:

• Timeframe for returns and refunds.
• Conditions for eligibility.
• Process for requesting a return.

7. Contact Information and Business Identity

California law requires businesses to provide accurate and up-to-date contact details on their website, including:

• Business name and legal entity (LLC, Corp, etc.).
• Physical address and email.
• Phone number or contact form.

8. Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) Notice

If your website allows user-generated content, you should include a DMCA notice explaining how to report copyright infringements. This helps protect your business from liability.

9. California “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” Notice

Under the CCPA, businesses that sell consumer data must provide a Do Not Sell My Personal Information link, allowing users to opt out of data sales.

10. Payment and Security Information

For eCommerce websites, a security notice explaining how transactions are secured can help build consumer trust. It should include:

• Encryption methods (e.g., SSL certificates).
• Fraud protection policies.
• PCI compliance details.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring your website has the proper legal notices can protect your business from fines, lawsuits, and compliance issues. At Anelya Law Offices, we help California businesses draft tailored website policies to meet all legal requirements. Contact us today to ensure your website is fully compliant and legally secure.