Are color drawings or photographs allowed in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Color drawings or photographs are generally not allowed in patent applications without special permission. MPEP 507 states: OPAP may object to and require corrected drawings within a set time period, if the drawings: … (G) contain color drawings or color photographs, but not a petition to accept color drawings/photographs. If an applicant wishes to include color drawings or photographs, they must file a petition to accept them. It’s important to note that the requirement for a black and white photocopy of color drawings/photographs has been eliminated. Applicants should be prepared to justify the need for color in their drawings or photographs when filing such a petition. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Office of Patent Application Processing Reviews Drawings for Publication MPEP 507 Permitted Black and White Copies No Longer Required for Color Drawings/Photographs MPEP 507 Color Photographs Allowed in Design Patents MPEP 608.01(f) Required Color Photographs Allowed in Design Patents MPEP 608.02 Required Color Photographs Allowed in Design Patents MPEP 608.02 Corrected Drawings Required for Legibility and Compliance MPEP 507 Permitted Color Drawings Prohibited Without Petition MPEP 507 Design Patent Drawings Not Reviewed for Publication MPEP 507 No Fee for Corrected Drawings Required by OPAP MPEP 507 Required Color Photographs Allowed in Design Patents MPEP 608.02 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if corrected drawings are not received within the set time period? Can drawing corrections be made after the application has been allowed? What happens if a drawing is not included with the application? What happens if the drawings in a pa...