Can I Trademark a Domain Name?

If you’ve secured a domain name for your business, you might be wondering: can I trademark a domain name, or is owning the domain enough?

It’s a common question and an important one. Many founders assume that buying a domain automatically protects their brand. Unfortunately, that’s not how trademark law works. In some cases, someone else could legally register your business name as a trademark, even if you own the domain.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down in plain English: what it means to trademark a domain name, when it’s possible, when it’s not, and how UK businesses can protect themselves properly.

What Does “Trademarking a Domain Name” Actually Mean?

Let’s clear up a key misunderstanding first.

You cannot trademark a domain name as a domain.

A trademark does not protect:

• The “.co.uk”, “.com”, or any domain extension

• The technical ownership of the domain

• The website itself

Instead, a trademark protects the brand name used in commerce.

Example

If you own:

www.greenleafdesign.co.uk

You cannot trademark the full domain, but you may be able to trademark:

GREEN LEAF DESIGN

— if it meets trademark requirements.

So the real question isn’t “can I trademark a domain name?” It’s:

Can the name used in my domain function as a trademark?

When Can a Domain Name Be Trademarked?

A domain name can be trademarked if it is used as a brand, not just as a web address.

To qualify, the name must be:

Distinctive

It must clearly identify your business and not describe the product or service directly.

• ✅ Zalando.com → distinctive

• ❌ CheapShoesOnline.co.uk → descriptive

Used Commercially

You must be using the name:

• On your website

• In marketing materials

• On invoices, packaging, or services

Simply owning a parked domain is not enough.

Not Conflicting With Existing Trademarks

If someone else already owns a similar registered trademark in the same industry, your application may be refused, even if you bought the domain first.

When You Cannot Trademark a Domain Name

There are several situations where trademarking a domain-based name is unlikely or impossible.

Descriptive or Generic Names

Names that describe what you sell usually fail trademark tests.

Examples:

• bestplumberlondon.co.uk

• onlineaccountingservices.com

These are useful for SEO, but weak for trademark protection.

Existing Trademark Conflicts

If another business already owns a registered trademark for the same or a similar name, domain ownership will not override their rights.

This is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes startups make.

Why Trademarking Your Domain Name Matters

Owning a domain without a trademark leaves your business exposed.

Here’s why trademark protection is so important:

1. Domain Ownership ≠ Brand Ownership

Someone else could:

• Register your name as a trademark

• Force you to rebrand

• Block you from expanding

2. Legal Protection

A registered trademark gives you the right to:

• Stop copycats

• Challenge confusingly similar brands

• Defend your business name legally

3. Business Growth & Value

Trademarks are assets. They help with:

• Investment readiness

• Franchising

• Licensing

• Selling your business later

If your brand matters to you, trademarking is not optional — it’s foundational.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Brand-First Domain

Brand: Moonrise Studio Domain: moonrisestudio.co.uk

✔ Distinctive ✔ Brand-led ✔ Strong candidate for trademark registration

Example 2: Keyword-Heavy Domain

Domain: cheapwebdesignlondon.co.uk

❌ Descriptive ❌ SEO-focused, not brand-focused ❌ Weak or unregistrable as a trademark

Domain Names vs Trademarks: A Quick Comparison

FeatureDomain NameTrademarkBought fromDomain registrarIntellectual Property OfficeProtects brand legally. ❌ No✔ Yes. Prevents copycats❌ No✔ YesGeographic scopeLimitedUK / EU / GlobalBusiness assetLimitedHigh

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trademark a domain name I already own?

Yes, if the name itself is distinctive and used as a brand. Domain ownership alone does not grant trademark rights.

Does owning a .co.uk domain protect me in the UK?

No. A domain does not give you trademark protection in the UK or anywhere else.

Should I buy the domain first or trademark first?

Ideally, you should check trademark availability before branding, then secure both the domain and trademark together.

Can someone trademark my domain name?

Yes, if you haven’t registered the trademark and they meet the legal requirements, they could gain superior rights.

Do I need a trademark if I only operate online?

Absolutely. Online-only businesses are often more exposed to brand copying and disputes.

Key Takeaways

• You cannot trademark a domain name itself

• You can trademark the brand name used within the domain

• Domain ownership does not equal legal protection

• Trademarking protects your business, brand, and future growth

Final Thoughts (and a Gentle Nudge)

If you’ve invested time, money, and energy into building a brand around your domain name, trademark protection is the natural next step.

Before filing, it’s always wise to:

• Check for existing trademarks

• Assess how strong your brand name really is

• Avoid expensive mistakes that could force a rebrand later

If you’d like help understanding whether your domain-based brand is trademarkable, a proper trademark search and strategy can save you time, money, and stress down the line.

Your brand deserves protection, not just a web address.