When was the 'CANOPY' service mark registered/applied for by Canopy Lawn Care?

According to Canopy Lawn Care's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the service mark 'CANOPY' has a registration/application date of October 24, 2017, with the registration number 5316039. This mark is registered on the Principal Register with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Canopy Lawn Care states their intent to file all required affidavits and renewals to maintain this registration.

As a Canopy Lawn Care franchisee, you are granted the nonexclusive right to use this mark, along with associated designs and logos. However, Canopy Lawn Care maintains strict control over how its trademarks are used. Franchisees must adhere to the guidelines in the Operations Manual and obtain prior written approval for their company name before filing any registration documents. This ensures consistent brand representation and protects the integrity of the 'CANOPY' mark.

Canopy Lawn Care also uses unregistered, common-law trademarks, and franchisees must follow the same usage rules for these marks. Franchisees cannot use any of the marks with modifying words, designs, or symbols as part of a corporate or business name, or in any form on the Internet, including URLs, domain names, or email addresses. This restriction is in place to prevent confusion and maintain the distinctiveness of the Canopy Lawn Care brand. Franchisees must also indicate that they are independent operators, as specified in the Franchise Agreement and Operations Manual.

It is important for prospective franchisees to understand that Canopy Lawn Care will take action against any infringement of its marks. Franchisees are required to notify Canopy Lawn Care immediately if they become aware of any infringement or challenge to the use of the marks. Canopy Lawn Care has the right to control any administrative proceedings or litigation involving the marks, and franchisees must cooperate with them. While Canopy Lawn Care will cover out-of-pocket expenses if they require a franchisee to join in any action, they are not required to participate in the franchisee's defense or indemnify them if the proceeding is resolved unfavorably to the franchisee.