Terms of Use

Last updated: July 30, 2026

These terms cover your use of Byline Maps (bylinemaps.com), a browser-based map-making tool for journalists, editors, and anyone who needs to build a quick, publication-ready map. By using the site, you agree to the terms below.

What Byline Maps is

Byline Maps lets you select countries, apply choropleth coloring, and export SVG or PNG maps directly in your browser. It runs entirely client-side — your map data, color choices, and exports are generated on your own device and are not uploaded to our servers.

Free and Pro tiers

Byline Maps is free to use for core map-building: country selection, choropleth coloring, color palettes, and data entry. A Pro tier is available that unlocks additional map layers (capitals, major cities, rivers, lakes, state/province boundaries), saved presets, and full-resolution, watermark-free exports.

Pro is a one-time purchase, not a subscription. You pay once via Gumroad and receive a license key that unlocks Pro features for as long as the site operates — there is no recurring billing.

Which specific features are included in the free tier versus Pro may change over time as the product evolves. We won't retroactively lock something you've already exported, but the set of features gated behind Pro is not fixed and may be adjusted.

Acceptable use

Don't attempt to circumvent Pro feature gating, share or resell your license key, or use the site in a way that disrupts it for other users. Maps you create with Byline Maps are yours to use however you like, including commercially.

No warranty

Byline Maps is provided "as is," without warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to accuracy of map data, boundary representations, or fitness for a particular purpose. Map and boundary data is sourced from third-party datasets (Natural Earth) and may contain errors or reflect disputed borders; you're responsible for reviewing exported maps before publishing them.

Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Byline Maps and its operator are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from your use of the site, including reliance on map data or downtime of the service. Our total liability for any claim relating to Byline Maps is limited to the amount you paid for Pro access, if any.

Changes to these terms

We may update these terms as the product evolves. Material changes will be reflected by updating the date at the top of this page.

Contact

Questions about these terms? Email [email protected].