Free API Terms of Use Template: Access Rules, Limits, Fees & Liability

1. License Grant

The Provider grants the User a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and revocable license to access and use the API solely for [Permitted Purposes, e.g., application integration, data retrieval] in accordance with this Agreement.

2. API Key Management

• Each User must obtain an API key from the Provider before accessing the API.
• Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their API keys and all activities under their account.
• Sharing or unauthorized use of API keys is strictly prohibited.

3. Permitted and Prohibited Uses

Permitted uses include:

• Accessing the API for legitimate business or development purposes.
• Complying with applicable laws and regulations.

Prohibited uses include:

• Reverse engineering or modifying the API.
• Using the API for illegal, malicious, or competitive purposes.
• Exceeding rate limits defined by the Provider.

4. Data Privacy and Security

The User agrees to:

• Implement appropriate security measures to protect any personal or sensitive data obtained through the API.
• Comply with applicable data protection laws, including GDPR, CCPA, or other regional regulations.

5. Intellectual Property Rights

• All intellectual property rights in the API, its documentation, and related materials remain with the Provider.
• The User obtains no ownership rights except for the limited license granted under this Agreement.

6. Service Levels and Modifications

• The Provider makes no guarantees of uninterrupted API availability but will use reasonable efforts to minimize downtime.
• The Provider reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue API access with reasonable notice.

7. Fees and Payment (Optional)

If the API is offered under a paid plan, fees, billing cycles, and payment terms shall be specified in a separate agreement or pricing schedule.

8. Termination

• The Provider may terminate or suspend API access for violations of this Agreement or for security concerns.
• Upon termination, the User must immediately cease all use of the API and delete related data, except as required by law.

9. Limitation of Liability

The Provider shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the API. Liability is limited to the amount paid for API access in the last 12 months, if applicable.

10. Indemnification

The User agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Provider from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from misuse of the API or violations of this Agreement.

11. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of [State/Country], without regard to conflicts of law principles.

12. Entire Agreement

This Agreement represents the entire understanding between the Provider and the User regarding API usage and supersedes any prior agreements.