Is Apache 2.0 compatible with BSD-3?
Apache 2.0-licensed code is compatible with a BSD-3 project. Here is what that means for your obligations, conflicts, and distribution.
The license of the code you want to use.
The license you are applying to your project.
The short answer
Both licenses are permissive and place minimal restrictions on combining, modifying, and distributing the code.
Key obligations
Retain copyright notices and disclaimers for the Apache 2.0 code.
Potential conflicts
None. Both licenses allow free incorporation into other works.
Distribution notes
Distribute under BSD-3, respecting the notice requirements of Apache 2.0.
Deep-dive resources
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What this means in practice
Apache License 2.0 is a permissive (+ patent grant) license and BSD 3-Clause is a permissive license. That combination is generally safe to ship: you can include the Apache 2.0 library in a BSD-3 project as long as you meet the notice and distribution requirements below. Internal-only use rarely triggers copyleft obligations, while shipping binaries or running a public network service is more likely to.
Compliance checklist for Apache 2.0 → BSD-3
- Retain the original Apache 2.0 copyright and license notices.
- Record that your project bundles Apache 2.0-licensed components (e.g. in an attribution or NOTICE file).
- Distribute the combined work under terms that satisfy BSD-3.
- Re-check the verdict if you switch to SaaS delivery or start modifying the component.
About these licenses
Apache License 2.0
LibraryPermissive, with an express patent grant and a NOTICE-file requirement. Its patent terms make it incompatible with GPL v2.0.
- Type
- Permissive (+ patent grant)
- Patent grant
- Express
- Source sharing
- Not required
BSD 3-Clause
ProjectPermissive like MIT, plus a clause barring use of the project's name to endorse derived products.
- Type
- Permissive
- Patent grant
- None
- Source sharing
- Not required
Apache 2.0 and BSD-3: frequently asked questions
Common questions about combining Apache License 2.0 and BSD 3-Clause.
Is Apache 2.0 compatible with BSD-3?
Both licenses are permissive and place minimal restrictions on combining, modifying, and distributing the code.
Can I use Apache 2.0 code in a BSD-3 SaaS or cloud application?
Both licenses are permissive and place minimal restrictions on combining, modifying, and distributing the code.
What are my obligations when combining Apache 2.0 and BSD-3?
Retain copyright notices and disclaimers for the Apache 2.0 code. Distribute under BSD-3, respecting the notice requirements of Apache 2.0.