Is BSD-3 compatible with Apache 2.0?
BSD-3-licensed code is compatible with a Apache 2.0 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 BSD-3 code.
Potential conflicts
None. Both licenses allow free incorporation into other works.
Distribution notes
Distribute under Apache 2.0, respecting the notice requirements of BSD-3.
Deep-dive resources
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What this means in practice
BSD 3-Clause is a permissive license and Apache License 2.0 is a permissive (+ patent grant) license. That combination is generally safe to ship: you can include the BSD-3 library in a Apache 2.0 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 BSD-3 → Apache 2.0
- Retain the original BSD-3 copyright and license notices.
- Record that your project bundles BSD-3-licensed components (e.g. in an attribution or NOTICE file).
- Distribute the combined work under terms that satisfy Apache 2.0.
- Re-check the verdict if you switch to SaaS delivery or start modifying the component.
About these licenses
BSD 3-Clause
LibraryPermissive 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 License 2.0
ProjectPermissive, 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 and Apache 2.0: frequently asked questions
Common questions about combining BSD 3-Clause and Apache License 2.0.
Is BSD-3 compatible with Apache 2.0?
Both licenses are permissive and place minimal restrictions on combining, modifying, and distributing the code.
Can I use BSD-3 code in a Apache 2.0 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 BSD-3 and Apache 2.0?
Retain copyright notices and disclaimers for the BSD-3 code. Distribute under Apache 2.0, respecting the notice requirements of BSD-3.