In one paragraph
California real estate brokers and salespeople, and people acting for them, who use a digitally altered image in advertising a property for sale must include a conspicuous statement that the image was altered and a link, URL or QR code to the original. Postings on websites they control must also include the unaltered image or a link to it. The law covers edits made with photo-editing software or AI that add, remove or change elements; routine adjustments such as lighting, color correction and cropping are excluded. Took effect January 1, 2026.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
If you are a California real estate licensee using software- or AI-edited photos that add, remove or change features of a property for sale, you must label them and give access to the originals.
Key provisions
- Applies to real estate licensees and people acting on their behalf advertising property for sale (Bus. & Prof. Code 10140.8)
- A reasonably conspicuous statement on or next to each altered image, plus a link, URL or QR code to the original, unaltered image
- Postings on websites the licensee controls must include the unaltered image or a link to it
- Covers edits made with photo-editing software or AI that add, remove or change elements; routine lighting, color, cropping and similar adjustments are excluded
Latest legislative action
Oct 10, 2025. Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 497, Statutes of 2025
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error