12 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
12 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

Do you have to get permission to list businesses in a directory?

by Pludoh
9 replies
I am starting a restaurant business directory, a menu site type of thing. Do I have to get permission to list these businesses? I need to know because I am new to this sort of thing. I plan to eventually offer free services and paid features on the directory, but if I am just listing the restaurants name and contact information is it illegal to do without permission?

I don't see why it would be, its free advertising right? haha.

Whenever this business starts getting along I'll share my complete business plan with my fellow warriors.
#businesses #directory #list #permission
  • Profile picture of the author Mike Parkin
    I don' think so... the big G would be a bit fu'd if that was the case.

    I used to work for a local paper and we were launching a local free directory- my boss made me phone people to ask and you would not believe the amount of people who said no...'but sir its free...completely'
    Signature
    Rockin' in the free world
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116269].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JasonGrimes
    If it's free advertising, I don't see why not. I'd double check though just incase.
    Signature
    [INSANE $1.50 WSO] Bomb Your Way To Success!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116367].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author LP Copywriter
    I've done it many times with no problem.
    Just be sure to change or remove any information if asked.
    Signature
    [Copy that Converts!] Make Your Next Project a Profitable One + FREE Marketing Audit
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116403].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Pludoh
    If anyone knows about the legality it would be super helpful.

    Thanks for your advice though Mike and Jason.

    I really do think my idea is a good one, I just had a crazy brainstorm session with a friend. Hopefully this is the game changer I've been waiting for.

    Even if it is illegal it might be a good thing in the long run because that would force me to meet with them in person.

    Do you think it would be illegal if I emailed them after adding, telling them that if they wanted me to remove them i could (of course while explaining why my business directory is the best )
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116414].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Mike Parkin
      what your laying out there has been done a lot so worry about that..
      'Dear sir /madam I have included you details in my new directory, if there is anything you would like to change please contact me at....'

      I'm not a lawyer but I worked for a huge company that ran local papers and they more or less did exactly this
      Signature
      Rockin' in the free world
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116492].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author coffeebun
        As others have previously replied I don't think so either. I have ran a couple of local directories like this in the past (pets and cleaning companies) and although I sent all businesses I listed a courtesy email letting them know about it I didn't have a single complaint.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116553].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author TryBPO
    We've worked with companies that built niche directories, large directories, etc. I'm not a lawyer and can't say for sure, but I'm 99% sure it's completely fine and ok.
    Signature
    Website Brokers - We can help you sell businesses making $500 to $50K per month.

    Free Website Valuation - How much is your website really worth? Find out here, free.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116781].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Shirlyn
    You have to fill required details to register your business on a directory but don't forget to select the required category for required traffic.
    Signature
    eUKhost : UK Web Hosting | Website builder
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4116875].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Pludoh
    Super helpful forum, I really appreciate the help guys.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4117257].message }}

Trending Topics