Content Policy FAQ
As a friendly reminder of our business model, it is important to us that we remain respectful of the knowledge that our readers did not subscribe to our publication. Therefore, we do not entertain content within our advertisements or our editorial that could be construed as divisive, exclusionary, or unnecessarily graphic.
Brand Standards
Q: Why do we have content policies?
A: City Lifestyle reaches a wide range of readers nationwide, spanning all ages and representing many different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. Because our audience does not subscribe and may encounter any of our content at any time, our content policies apply to all submissions to the CL platform. These guidelines help us avoid material that could be perceived as divisive, political, exclusionary, or unnecessarily graphic or triggering, and help minimize the potential for negative feedback or response. This protects not only our readers but also our publishers and their advertisers by fostering a welcoming environment where content is positively received. Our priority is to create a neutral, inclusive, and positive experience for every reader, regardless of age, location, or beliefs.
Q: Why was another publisher’s publication content violation allowed, but not mine?
A: Our content policies are continually updated to ensure we provide material that is respectful, inclusive, and aligned with a national perspective. What may have been acceptable in the past may no longer meet our current standards. All content submitted to the CL platform is manually reviewed by our QC team. While we work hard to maintain consistency, human error can occur, which means some violations may slip through—but they are never intentionally “let through.”
Q: Why is content that is acceptable in my local community not permitted by the content policy guidelines?
A: Our content policies are designed to reflect a national perspective, maintaining a tone that is respectful and inclusive for all readers—regardless of local customs or viewpoints. This helps ensure consistency and neutrality across all City Lifestyle publications.
Content Violation
Q: Can I appeal a content violation decision?
A: We understand that receiving a content revision request can be frustrating. Our QC team reviews all submissions carefully to ensure they meet current content policies designed to create a positive experience for all readers. While QC decisions are final, we encourage you to work with your editorial team to reframe your content or replace images in ways that align with our policies without losing your core message.
Q: What happens if my content violates policy?
A: If the content violates policy, the submission will be denied and cannot run as-is. Approved alternative material must be provided or selected, subject to the deadline, to be re-reviewed by our QC team. City Lifestyle reserves the right to take corrective action as needed to uphold content standards. This may include removing non-compliant editorial copy, replacing articles with evergreen or national content, or substituting ads with previously approved artwork or house ads. Our goal is to support publishers in delivering high-quality, policy-compliant content.
Sexuality
Q: What terminology is NOT allowed in an ad or editorial related to "sexual health"?
A: We allow the term “sexual health” in any capacity, but terms we avoid publishing include but are not limited to sex drive, sex function, sex life, libido, arousal, sexual pleasure/satisfaction, burlesque, homosexuality, gender identity, heterosexuality, affairs, infidelity, cheating (sexual in nature), and genitalia.
Click here for the full policy regarding sexuality.
Needles
Q: Do you allow images of needles as it pertain to medspas, acupuncture, etc.?
A: Yes, however, we do not allow needles or syringes to puncture the face/skin/near the eye (IVs and acupuncture on other areas of the body are generally okay). A general rule of thumb in a photo is that a needle should be at least 6 inches away from the face to be approved.
Click here for the full policy regarding medical content.
Marijuana & CBD
Q: Can I partner with and/or feature a marijuana dispensary?
A: No, we do not allow advertising or partnering with organizations involved in the sale or distribution of marijuana. This policy applies regardless of state-level legality. However, we do allow partnerships with CBD vendors as long as they do not sell marijuana.
Click here for the full policy regarding marijuana and CBD.
Kissing
Q: Can two people be kissing in a photo?
A: No, we do not publish photos of couples kissing or intimate affection. Couples may be hugging, holding hands, in wedding photos, etc, but lips may not be touching.
Click here for the full policy regarding sexualized content.