When writing a novel do you need permission to use brand names such as McDonald&

Question: When writing a novel do you need permission to use brand names such as McDonald's, Nikes, etc!.!?

I'm not using them in a degrading way just casually you know!. It's a journal format and I want it to be realistic of course!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

If you are reprinting the lyrics of the songs, then you will need to get permission!. If you are just using the titles of the songs, then there is not a problem!.

Most institutions (including bands and restaurants) and brand names can be used without much hassle as long as you are not using it in a degrading manner!. In fact, most will consider it as unpaid advertising and will not cause problems!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

No worry unless you're going to say bad things about them, Some brands are actually paying authors to feature them in their books these days!. Song names and celebrity names are both open game as well, as long as you're not claiming some specific item!. So it's ok to have someone like Paris Hilton, you just can't have her disemboweling babies in a black mass!.

Song titles are considered fair use, song lyrics will cost you money!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

If they are copyrighted, then yes!. Www@QuestionHome@Com

If there copyrighted

You should just make up your own :OWww@QuestionHome@Com

I don't think that you do!.Www@QuestionHome@Com