7

TL;DR

Is having a repository on GitHub considered distribution in the sense of a license?

Description

I have some repositories on GitHub. Now I modified a file for a project. The file was licensed under Apache 2.

The project is for an online course from Udacity to learn Android development.

My understanding is the following. If I distribute the file then I have to comply with the license in the sense that I have to:

  1. include the copyright
  2. include the license
  3. state the changes
  4. include a notice

Question

Now my thinking is since I keep my repository public on GitHub, is it considered distribution, and thus I have to state the changes and include notices, etc. ?

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
7

Yes, this is considered redistribution. If not what would?

Improve this answer
5
  • What if I said I am only keeping it on GitHub for my own use and benefit during the coursework; because public GitHub is free (and a cloud back).
    – Ely
    Mar 9, 2017 at 15:56
  • 4
    Then you would be violating the Github terms of service (See "LIcense Grant to Other Users, paragraph 5)
    – Glenn Randers-Pehrson
    Mar 9, 2017 at 16:26
  • @GlennRanders-Pehrson I thought that was only a right to fork? It didn't give any other rights as far as I understand (but then I've never really read it) :P
    – Zizouz212
    Mar 9, 2017 at 17:48
  • 7
    Well, if I fork a repository then I've received a complete copy of the project; that amounts to distribution, which was the question.
    – Glenn Randers-Pehrson
    Mar 9, 2017 at 22:17
  • @GlennRanders-Pehrson I think that answers my questions. I understand the paragraph 5 you mentioned is valid and true even if I adopt a license that states otherwise: e.g. "you are only allowed to fork if you don't keep it in a private repository".
    – Ely
    Mar 10, 2017 at 7:41

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.