In 1990, the copyright law changed to make it clearer that architectural drawings in any tangible medium or form, such as magazines, books, CD-ROMs, or the Internet are protected under copyright law. It is a misconception that it is permissible to modify a house plan from such sources. It is not! It is illegal!

All house plans sold through this site are protected by copyright. Reproduction of these house plans, including photo copies, either in whole or in part, including any form and/or the preparation of any derivative works, for any reason without prior written permission is strictly prohibited and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, as amended. The purchase of a set of house plans in no way transfers any copyright or other ownership interest to the buyer except for a limited license to use that set of house plans for the construction of one, and only one, dwelling unit.

Similarly, the purchase of reproducible house plans (sepias, mylars, or CAD discs) carries the same copyright protection as mentioned above. It is allowed to make up to a maximum of 10 copies for the construction of a single dwelling only. To use any house plans more than once, and to avoid copyright infringement, it is necessary to contact the house plan's designer to receive a release and a license for any extended usage. Whereas the purchaser of reproducible house plans is granted a license to make copies, it should be noted that making photocopies from prints is illegal.

The copyright laws and licensing of house plans for construction exist to protect all parties. It respects and supports the intellectual property of the original house plan designer. Copyright law has been reinforced over the past few years to provide for enhanced damages. Infringement could cause an award for statutory damages of up to $150,000 plus attorney fees.