non-exclusive license

Definition

A non-exclusive license gives you permission to use someone else's property, like software, music, or a patent, but the owner can grant that same permission to as many other people as they want at the same time. Think of it like a movie theater buying the right to show a film, knowing that dozens of other theaters are showing the exact same film across the country.

Example

You pay a stock photo website for the right to use an image in your marketing materials, but that same image might also appear in a competitor's brochure because they bought the same license.

Watch Out

If your business needs exclusive rights to something so competitors cannot use it, a non-exclusive license will not protect you and you should negotiate for an exclusive license instead.

See which terms appear in your contract?

This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.