Assignment of domain names

An assignment of domain names is the transfer of the registration of a domain name from one registrant to another, usually by a change of registrant through the registrar. A domain name is a contractual registration right with a registrar, not a registered intellectual property right, so the transfer follows the registrar's terms and the rules of the domain's registry.

How BC law treats it

CIRA governs only .ca domains, including its Canadian Presence Requirements and its Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy. Domains such as .com are governed by ICANN policies, registrar terms and the UDRP for disputes. Trademark rights in the name are separate and are transferred under the Trademarks Act.

What it means for your business

When buying a business, the buyer should make sure key domains are actually transferred into its own account at the registrar, not just listed in the purchase agreement.

Risks and common mistakes

Domains are often registered in the personal name of a founder or web developer, which can delay or block a transfer at closing.

For the full explanation, see our entry on Assignment of intellectual property.

General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.