Content Policy FAQ
As a friendly reminder of our business model, we want to remain respectful of the fact that our readers did not subscribe to our publication. With this in mind, our guidelines exist to keep both our ad space and editorial content suitable for all readers across our community. Please note that this document serves as an FAQ for quick reference; all official policies are detailed in: Content Policy and Agreement: For Advertising Partners and Magazine Editorial Content.
City Lifestyle 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 Violations
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 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.
Content Policies
Casinos, Clubs, and Other Addictive Behavior
Q: Can I partner with a cigar shop?
A: Yes. While we typically don’t allow partnerships with smoking establishments, cigars are primarily used in a celebratory manner, are a once-in-a-while luxury, and have a more positive cultural perception.
Q: Can I partner with a casino?
A: Yes, but anything regarding gambling or the “casino floor” is not permitted. Advertising the casino’s spa, restaurants, musical events, etc., is recommended, and the word “casino” must be limited to the business name and address.
Q: Can I partner with a liquor store?
A: Yes, while alcohol is an addictive substance, the national tone surrounding alcohol is largely positive and accepted. Encouraging excessive alcohol use and other unhealthy habits still needs to be avoided.
Lawyers
Q: Are there limitations on the specific field of law a lawyer can use for advertising?
A: While we accept advertisements for any legal specialty, not all practice areas are suitable for expanded coverage. Topics that do not align with our focus on positive community news—such as divorce—cannot be featured as a main subject in articles, advertorials, or expanded coverage.
Marijuana (Medical and Recreational) and 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.
Medical Content
Sexual Performance
Q: What terminology is NOT allowed in relation to "sexual health"?
A: We allow the term “sexual health” in any capacity, but terms we avoid publishing in ads or editorial include, but are not limited to, sex drive, sex function, sex life, arousal, sexual pleasure/satisfaction, burlesque, homosexuality, gender identity, heterosexuality, affairs, infidelity, cheating (sexual in nature), and genitalia.
Needles
Q: Do you allow images of needles as it pertains to medspas, acupuncture, etc.?
A: Yes. Images containing needles or syringes are allowed as long as they do not show blood or depict graphic placements (e.g., in or directly in the eyeball). Standard medspa procedures and acupuncture visuals are acceptable.
Nudity, Adult Novelty + Sexualized Content
Kissing and Affection
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.