Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the Southern Automate Business Directory ("the Service"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, please do not use the Service.

2. Description of Service

The Southern Automate Business Directory is a platform connecting consumers with independently owned, locally operated businesses in Carteret County, North Carolina. Eligible business owners may create listings, and users may browse and discover these businesses.

3. Eligibility Requirements

3.1 Business Listings

To list a business, you must meet the following criteria:

• Your business must be independently owned and locally operated
• Your business must be located in or primarily serve Carteret County, NC
• Your business must NOT be a franchise, national chain, or corporate-owned entity
• You must have legal authority to represent the business
• All information provided must be accurate and truthful

3.2 User Accounts

To create an account and list a business, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Provide accurate and complete information
• Maintain the security of your account credentials
• Accept responsibility for all activities under your account

4. User Responsibilities

4.1 Content Accuracy

You are responsible for ensuring that all information you provide (including business descriptions, contact details, and hours) is accurate, current, and complete.

4.2 Prohibited Content

You agree not to post content that:

• Is false, misleading, or deceptive
• Violates any local, state, or federal law
• Infringes on intellectual property rights
• Contains offensive, discriminatory, or harmful material
• Includes spam or unsolicited promotional content
• Contains malicious code, scripts, or harmful links

4.3 Business Operations

Listed businesses must:

• Operate in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
• Maintain appropriate licenses and permits
• Provide goods or services as advertised
• Handle customer interactions professionally

5. Platform Rights and Moderation

5.1 Content Review

We reserve the right to review, approve, reject, or remove any business listing or user content at our sole discretion. This includes the right to:

• Verify business eligibility before approval
• Request additional documentation or clarification
• Remove listings that violate these Terms
• Suspend or terminate accounts for violations

5.2 Platform Modifications

We may modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the Service at any time, with or without notice. Features may be limited or access restricted as needed.

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Listing Fees

Business listings require a one-time fee:
• Non State Registered businesses – $10
• State Registered businesses with a valid SOS ID – $25
Sponsored listings may also be offered for an additional fee. All payments are non-refundable.

6.2 Payment Processing

Payments are securely processed through Stripe. By submitting payment, you also agree to Stripe's terms of service and privacy policy.

7. Intellectual Property

7.1 Platform Content

The Southern Automate Business Directory, including its design, functionality, and content, is protected by copyright, trademark, and other laws. You may not copy, modify, or distribute platform content without permission.

7.2 User Content

You retain ownership of content you submit but grant us a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute your content in connection with the Service.

8. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use, and protect your information. By using the Service, you consent to our privacy practices.

9. Disclaimers and Limitations

9.1 Service Availability

We strive to maintain availability but do not guarantee uninterrupted access. The Service is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind.

9.2 Business Information

We are not responsible for the accuracy of business information provided by users. Users should independently verify details before making purchasing decisions.

9.3 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Southern Automate shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages resulting from your use of the Service.

10. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Southern Automate from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of the Service, your violation of these Terms, or your violation of another party’s rights.

11. Termination

We may suspend or terminate your account at any time for violations of these Terms. Upon termination, your right to use the Service ceases immediately.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of North Carolina, United States. Any disputes will be resolved in the courts of Carteret County, North Carolina.

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page. Continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.

14. Contact Information

15. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in effect.