1. Playing Rules
  2. Operating Policies and Position Statements

Little League Trademarks

Operating Policies and Position Statements

Introduction

Little League International is a federally chartered nonprofit organization founded in 1939 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. In 1964, Little League International was granted a federal charter by the United States Congress, codified at 36 U.S. Code § 30901, et seq., which affirms its exclusive right to use and control its name, marks, and logos. The Little League Trademarks represent more than just a name; they reflect the mission, values, and history of the world’s largest and most trusted global youth sports organization.

This policy outlines the proper use of the Little League Trademarks by chartered Leagues, districts, local sponsors, partners, vendors, and any individual or organization seeking to associate with Little League International. It is intended to protect the reputation and value of the Little League brand while helping Leagues and volunteers understand how to use the Little League Trademarks appropriately in support of League operations.

Any use of the Little League Trademarks must comply with the guidelines outlined in the Operating Policies, and the Official Regulations and Playing Rules of Little League International. The misuse of the Little League Trademarks, whether intentional or unintentional, may result in loss of charter status or legal action.

If you have questions about how to apply this policy, or if you suspect unauthorized use of the Little League Trademarks, please contact the Little League International Licensing Department at [email protected].

Overview of Little League Trademarks

In addition to the rights granted by the United States Congress, Little League International also owns numerous federal and international trademark registrations for its wordmarks and logos. These registrations provide additional legal protection and ensure that the Little League Trademarks are recognized and enforceable across multiple jurisdictions.

Registered and Protected Marks

The following are examples of protected Little League Trademarks, but do not represent a complete list. Little League International continually monitors and updates its portfolio of trademarks to reflect the growth of its programs, events, and brand identity. For a complete and up-to-date list, please visit LittleLeague.org/Trademarks.

Primary Trademarks

These marks serve as the foundation of the Little League brand and receive the highest level of recognition and protection.

  • The term “LITTLE LEAGUE®” represents the organization and its programs worldwide.
  • The Little League Keystone logo, with or without the accompanying wordmark, “LITTLE LEAGUE”, is the primary symbol/logo of the Little League brand.

Names and Word Marks:

Little League Little League exclusively owns the following: LITTLE LEAGUE®, LITTLE LEAGUER®, LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL®, LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL®, LITTLE LEAGUE CHALLENGER DIVISION®, SENIOR LEAGUE LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL®, GIRLS WITH GAME®, LIVE YOUR SERIES®, SANDLOT FUN DAYS®, LL®, LLB®, and LLWS™.

Other Logos and Emblems:

In addition to our Primary Logos, including the Keystone Logo, Little League exclusively owns the following: Character, Courage, and Loyalty logo; oval baseball and softball logos; International Tournament marks; and other official Little League International logos.

Capitalization and Style Requirements

The term “Little League” in any form must always be capitalized and used only to refer to official programs, activities, events, and communications. When using any Little League Trademark in regard to the entire Little League organization, including affiliation to the program, the appropriate ® or ™ symbol must be included. These are not required when referencing the official name of a local league or district.

Use as a Generic Term

The Little League Trademarks must never be used as a generic descriptor for youth sports generally (e.g., referring to any non-affiliated youth program as “Little League”). They identify only official Little League International programs and activities.

Parks and Recreation Leagues

Special considerations may apply to chartered Leagues operated through local Parks and Recreation Departments; however, all Little League Trademark requirements in this policy still apply.

Global Protection

The Little League Trademarks are protected not only in the United States, but also internationally. All domestic and international Leagues must follow the usage and protection standards outlined in this policy. This includes use for Little League Trademarks and other creative elements.

Authorized Use by Chartered Local LeaguesAuthorized Use by Chartered Local Leagues

Chartered Leagues are permitted to use the Little League Trademarks to identify their program, promote official activities, and foster community recognition. This use must include their League identifier such as town name or other unique naming convention to their locale. These rights are limited in scope and , are only valid during an active charter year.

Leagues receive these limited rights through the annual charter agreement process. Use of the Little League Trademarks is permitted solely in connection with officially sanctioned Little League International activities and operations, as defined in the complete Operating Policies as well as Official Regulations and Playing Rules of Little League.

Authorized Use of Little League Trademarks

Chartered Leagues may use the Little League Trademarks as follows:

  • On player uniforms, as part of the official applied patch (Regulation 1.11e), on uniforms as part of League name
  • On signage at League facilities (e.g., scoreboards, dugouts, banners)
  • In printed materials (schedules, programs, flyers)
  • On the League websites and social media
  • In press releases or other event announcements prepared by the League

All such uses must clearly identify the local league and may not imply endorsement of an individual, commercial entity or business, or other outside organization. All such uses must follow the Little League Brand Guidelines where applicable.

League-Created Logos

Chartered Leagues may design a custom logo to represent their program. If the logo includes the term “Little League,” it must be used in conjunction with the full name of the local league. Custom logos must comply with all uniform regulations outlined in Rule 1.11(e) of the Little League Rulebook.

A League may not file to trademark a custom League logo if it contains “Little League”, “LL”, or any other wordmark owned by Little League International.

For questions about logo design or compliance, you are encouraged to contact the Little League International Licensing Department at [email protected].

Little League Brand Marketing & Promotional Materials

Leagues can download official Little League International logos, customizable branded flyers, and other print-on-demand materials from the Data Center under “League Resources.”

The logos available for download include the Official Community and Official Program identifiers, which designate a League as an officially chartered program within Little League International.

The Primary Trademarks, which include the Little League Keystone logo and the “Little League®” wordmark, represent the overall organization and are not available for download in the Data Center. The use of the Little League’s Primary Trademarks requires prior written approval. To request approval, please contact the Licensing Department at [email protected].

Duration of Permission

The right to use the Little League Trademarks is valid only while a League remains officially chartered. If a League’s charter is revoked, suspended, or not renewed, all use of the Little League Trademarks must immediately cease, including logos and names appearing on websites, social media, uniforms, signs, and printed materials.

Fundraising, Advertising and Sponsorship

Chartered Leagues and districts may engage in fundraising and accept sponsorships to support their operations. All such activities must comply with Little League International guidelines, applicable state laws, and community standards.

Fundraising Participation

  • Leagues may organize fundraising activities, but individuals (e.g., families, volunteers) who do not wish to participate must be provided with an alternative way to support the League (e.g., a direct contribution or volunteer hours).
  • As noted in Regulation XIII, no player or volunteer may be denied participation in the regular season or tournament play, including for lack of fundraising participation.
  • These rules apply throughout the year, including at the start of the Little League International Tournament. Additional information is available at LittleLeague.org/TournamentFundraising

Compliance with the Law

Chartered Leagues and districts operating under a tax-exempt, non-profit status must comply with state requirements for charitable solicitations. In some cases, additional requirements may be needed before soliciting funds in the state or community using the Little League name. Leagues must maintain their charitable status at all times if soliciting funds using Little League Trademarks.

Little League International strongly encourages Leagues to consult with legal counsel to ensure that all fundraising practices, solicitations, sponsorships, and related financial activities comply with such requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, laws governing charitable solicitations, permits, tax reporting, and the proper use of charitable funds among other fundraising topics. Little League International does not provide legal advice and assumes no responsibility for a League’s compliance with any applicable legal obligations related to fundraising.

Resources are available at LittleLeagueUniversity.org by searching “state laws fundraising” and “non-profit fundraising.”

Fundraising and Local Sponsorship Guidelines

  • Sponsorships and donations should be viewed as community contributions in support of the League’s mission. They do not provide the sponsor with any rights in the operation of the League or its teams.
  • Sponsors may not use the Little League Trademarks in their own advertising, websites, or social media. The recognition of sponsors must come from the League itself. For example, if a business donates cash or equipment, the League (not the business) must issue any public acknowledgment.
  • Leagues are responsible for securing all applicable requirements for charitable solicitation, sponsorship procurement, raffles and event fundraisers, and other applicable laws.
  • Leagues may not permit a business or other third-party entity to receive an “official designation” as part of any donation or local sponsorship.
  • The term of any such local sponsorship or commitment should not exceed the length of the League’s annual charter.
  • The League must issue all press releases or announcements on behalf of any local sponsorship or fundraising donation.
  • League fundraising activities must at all times be legally compliant and refrain from using the prohibited categories listed below in any form.

Prohibited Transactions, Sponsorships, Donations or Product Relationships

Leagues and districts are prohibited from accepting sponsorships, donations, advertisements —or engaging in any transactions, including concession sales or fundraisers —with organizations, products or services associated with:

  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco products of any kind
  • E-cigarettes or vaping
  • Marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD) oil, hemp derivatives, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or other controlled substances
  • Firearms
  • Gambling
  • Political campaigns (individuals or parties)
  • Adult or mature content

Leagues should also avoid any sponsorships that may be objectionable to their local community. Little League International reserves the right to restrict or prohibit any sponsorship, advertisement, or donation to a League that is deemed inconsistent with the mission and values of Little League International.

Responsible Stewardship in Fundraising and League Sponsorship

  • Leagues and districts must ensure that all funds collected in the name of the League are used solely for legitimate League purposes. Great care must be taken to prevent misappropriation or misuse of funds.
  • At no time should an individual fundraise on behalf of the League without permission from the League Board of Directors. This includes individuals who sell merchandise on behalf of the League, set up crowdfunding websites, or other situations where funds are raised outside of the auspices of the League’s Board of Directors oversight. This includes fundraising during the Little League International Tournament.
  • Little League International does not limit participation in its activities, including fundraising activities, on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or religious preference.

Operational Guidance

  • Chartered Leagues should consult their District Administrator for guidance on fundraising and sponsor solicitation.
  • Guidance should emphasize fundraising efforts that take place within the boundaries of the League.
  • Use simple written sponsorship agreements and carefully review all provisions before signing. Leagues should never agree to provisions that shift liability to the League or requires the League to indemnify the sponsor in any manner or that transfer ownership or give permission to use Little League Trademarks.
  • Carefully review any third-party fundraising proposals before approval.
  • Make fundraising and sponsorship a standing agenda item at League meetings and ask volunteers to promptly report any proposed outside fundraising plans.
  • Proper documentation of all funds raised should also be shared with League membership.

Little League International Tournament Fundraising

The above fundraising and sponsorship policies apply year-round, including during the International Tournament. Additional guidance is available at LittleLeagueUniversity.org – Fundraising & State Laws.

Limitations and Restrictions

The use of the Little League Trademarks is strictly limited to activities conducted by chartered Leagues. These marks may not be used in any way that implies affiliation with, endorsement by, or approval from Little League, unless such use has been expressly authorized in writing.

General Restrictions on Trademark Usage

  • The Little League Trademarks may only be used in connection with official Little League International activities.
  • The Little League Trademarks may not be used to promote or advertise any other sports program or unaffiliated organization.
  • The Little League Trademarks may not be used as part of a composite or co-branded name with another organization.
  • The Little League Trademarks may not appear on websites, flyers, commercials, print advertisements, or social media that promote third-party sports programs, businesses, or events.
  • Chartered Leagues may recognize sponsors and donors, but businesses may not use the Little League Trademarks in any marketing, press/media, advertising, or branding.
  • The Little League Trademarks may not be used in commercial advertisements, endorsements, or public relations materials for local businesses.
  • The Little League Trademarks may not be shared with vendors or third parties of any kind, to produce signage or products without written permission from Little League International ([email protected]).
  • It is the policy of Little League International not to endorse any company, product, or service except for Little League International approved partners and licensees; any use of the Little League Trademarks that implies such an endorsement is unauthorized and Leagues will be advised that such endorsement should be removed.

Sublimation of the Official Little League Patch

Sublimation of the official Little League patch on uniforms is not permitted. Leagues may not authorize vendors to sublimate the patch. For current requirements, visit LittleLeague.org/Patch.

Third-Party Fundraising and Unauthorized Use

Chartered Leagues may not authorize outside individuals or businesses to raise money, solicit sponsorships, or promote products/services using the Little League Trademarks. Unless authorized by Little League International, third parties may not:

  • Solicit donations or sponsorships on behalf of a League
  • Sell products, advertising, or fundraising services using the Little League Trademarks
  • Represent themselves as agents or fundraisers for Little League International or any League
  • Request, access, or receive player, parent, or volunteer information for any reason

If a League is approached by a third party offering fundraising or promotional assistance, the League must:

  • Maintain full control over all branding, communications, and messaging
  • Never allow a third party to use the Little League Trademarks
  • Contact the Licensing Department ([email protected]) for review prior to entering any agreement

Leagues should also be aware of potential fraud. Unauthorized solicitation of funds in the name of Little League International or local League, disproportionate funds raised, or the cashing of checks made out to “Little League” without authorization may constitute fraud or forgery.

Exploitation Prohibited

The Little League International program and its participants must never be exploited for the financial or reputational benefit of an outside individual, business, or organization.

Examples of prohibited exploitation include:

  • Using images or stories of Little League participants in advertising without permission
  • Hosting events “in the name of Little League” that benefit unrelated causes
  • Charging fees, selling access, or leveraging the League’s name to create personal or business profit

Exploitative uses not only violate trademark policy but may also mislead families, donors, sponsors, or the public about the values of the Little League International program. Leagues that permit unauthorized or exploitative use of the Little League Trademarks or program content may be subject to charter revocation or other disciplinary action.

Licensed and Approved Products/Partners

Little League International encourages all Leagues and districts to use official licensed partners and official sponsors for the production of items such as uniforms, banners, trophies, awards, and fundraising products. These licensed vendors are familiar with the policies and style requirements related to Little League Trademarks and can help ensure proper use.

A current list of approved licensed vendors is available at LittleLeague.org/Licensing.

Pins

Leagues and districts must use an official Little League licensed vendor for the production of pins, awards or commemorative items.

Single-Use Agreements

If a licensed vendor is unable to meet the specific needs of a League or district, Little League International may consider the use of a non-licensed vendor through a single-use agreement. These one-time permissions allow for the limited use of the Little League Trademarks on a custom product, that considers:

  • Little League International approves the vendor to be used and the product.
  • A licensed vendor is not able to produce such product.
  • The product is not mass produced or resold.
  • The marks are used solely for the League or district’s internal use.
  • The supplier does not claim affiliation with or endorsement by Little League International.
  • The supplier is only permitted to use the Trademarks one-time. Additional use requires additional requested permission.

To request a single-use agreement, please contact the Licensing Department at [email protected] or visit LittleLeague.org/Licensing for more information and downloadable forms.

International Leagues

International Leagues are encouraged to use licensed vendors when available. If an approved vendor cannot meet a specific international need, Leagues may request a single-use agreement for a country-specific supplier by contacting the Licensing Department at [email protected].

Use by Licensee and Approved Vendors

Official licensees, sponsors, and authorized vendors may use the Little League Trademarks only as authorized by a written license agreement with Little League. These agreements define the specific products, services, and contexts in which marks may be used.

Licensees must:

  • Follow all Little League Licensing Agreement terms, style guidelines, and brand standards
  • Include the proper ® or ™ designation when displaying the Little League Trademarks
  • Never sublicense the rights to another party without written consent from Little League
  • Provide approved manufacturer requirements, quality control standards, and other insurance provisions

Unauthorized Use by Vendors and Businesses

The following uses are strictly prohibited without a written license from Little League International:

  • Selling merchandise (apparel, hats, pins, etc.) featuring the Little League Trademarks
  • Advertising a business using phrases like “Official Sponsor of (Local) Little League” or “Endorsed by Little League”
  • Including the Little League Trademarks in digital content, packaging, or signage
  • Creating awards, giveaways, or commemorative items featuring the Little League Trademarks

Even if the intent is to support a League or recognize youth athletes, no vendor or business may use the Little League Trademarks without prior written permission from Little League International.

Media and Editorial Use

Media outlets may reference the Little League Trademarks in factual reporting and coverage of games, events, and official League activities. However, certain restrictions apply to protect the integrity of the Little League brand:

  • Wordmarks (e.g., “Little League®,” “Little League Baseball®,” “Little League Softball®,” “LLWS™”) may be used in factual reporting and editorial content, provided they are used in the proper form (capitalized, with the ® or ™ where applicable) and only to identify official Little League International programs and activities.
  • Logos and emblems (e.g., the Keystone logo) may not be reproduced, displayed, or published without prior written permission from Little League International.

Use of game footage, interviews, or photographs is subject to Little League International’s media rights agreements and licensing policies.

For questions about media use, please contact [email protected].

Enforcement and Misuse

Little League International is committed to protecting the integrity of the Little League Trademarks and the reputation they represent. Any misuse, whether intentional or unintentional, can create confusion, dilute the brand, and result in legal and reputational harm. Consistent, proper use of the Little League Trademarks is essential to maintaining public trust, avoiding confusion, and supporting the continued success of the program worldwide.

Monitoring and Compliance

Little League International monitors the use of the Little League Trademarks across digital platforms, media, printed materials, uniforms, merchandise, and advertising. Any reported or discovered misuse may result in an investigation, including outreach to the involved local league, vendor, or party involved. Chartered Leagues, districts, and affiliated entities are expected to cooperate fully in correcting any improper or unauthorized use of the Little League Trademarks.

Consequences of Misuse

Unauthorized use of the Little League Trademarks may result in one or more of the following actions:

  • Written notice requiring correction or removal of the violation
  • Suspension or revocation of a League’s charter or tournament eligibility
  • Termination of vendor approvals or licensing agreements
  • Legal action, including fines, cease-and-desist letters, or formal enforcement proceedings

Unauthorized use of marks protected under Little League International’s Congressional Charter and U.S. trademark law may result in civil penalties or other legal consequences.

Reporting Suspected Misuse

If you believe a League, business, or organization is using the Little League Trademarks improperly, or if you are unsure whether a particular use is permitted, please contact the Little League International Licensing Department at [email protected]. Reports may be submitted confidentially. All concerns will be reviewed promptly and handled with discretion.

Reporting Unauthorized Use by Non-Affiliated Leagues

Any youth baseball or softball program, or any other type of organization, that is not currently chartered with Little League International but uses the Little League Trademarks should be reported to [email protected]. Please provide links and/or photos of the infringing websites or materials when submitting a report.