California SMS Marketing Laws Every Business Needs to Know
Written By: Shane Clark on February 17, 2025
If your business uses text messages to reach customers in California, you need to understand the rules. California SMS marketing laws are strict, and ignoring them can lead to major penalties. These laws protect consumers and affect how you collect phone numbers, send promotions, and manage customer data. Whether you run a small shop or a national campaign, following these rules helps you avoid fines and build trust.
What Makes California SMS Laws Different
While federal rules like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) apply to all U.S. businesses, California takes SMS marketing compliance further:
- Clear disclosure: You must explain how customer data is used.
- Proper consent: Get explicit permission before sending any texts.
- Easy opt-out options: Allow customers to unsubscribe effortlessly.
Tools like Klaviyo and Postscript include built-in compliance features, but it’s essential to implement them correctly. For in-house campaigns, consider hiring a Digital Marketing Expert to ensure your SMS strategy is legally sound from the start.
How to Get Consent the Right Way
In California, getting permission to send texts requires more than checking a box. Customers must take clear action to opt in, and you must tell them exactly what to expect.
Tips for proper consent:
- Use a pop-up form that explains message frequency and data use.
- Allow users to join by texting a keyword.
- Keep detailed records of consent, including timestamps and opt-in methods.
Automated tools or a WooCommerce/Shopify Developer can help log this data securely, protecting your business if legal questions arise.
Avoid These Common SMS Marketing Mistakes
Some businesses think adding “Reply STOP” is enough. It’s not. Other common mistakes include:
- Sending texts outside legal hours (before 8 AM or after 9 PM in the customer’s time zone).
- Forgetting to include the business name in messages.
Always identify your business and explain why the recipient is receiving the message. A Web Development expert can help set up automated texts that meet these requirements.
What the California Consumer Privacy Act Means for SMS
The California Consumer Privacy Act raises the bar for transparency and data protection.
- You must disclose how you use phone numbers and other personal data.
- Customers have the right to opt out of data sharing or sales.
- Users can request access to or deletion of their data, including phone numbers.
Ensure your privacy policy is clear and that your forms (e.g., on Joomla or WIX) support these features. A Web Design specialist can help implement the right tools for compliance.
Website Features That Support SMS Law Compliance
Your website plays a critical role in SMS marketing compliance. Key features include:
- Clear opt-in checkboxes (unchecked by default)
- Accessible privacy links
- User-friendly preference management
Use double opt-in whenever possible. For example, after signup, send a text asking users to reply “YES” to confirm. This extra step demonstrates your commitment to consent.
If your store runs on BigCommerce or Pinnacle Cart, an Ecommerce Development team can integrate these workflows seamlessly.
Why SMS Compliance Helps You Build Trust
Following California SMS laws does more than protect your business—it builds customer trust.
- Customers are more likely to stay on your list when they know what to expect.
- Text messages are highly effective, but only if recipients trust you.
Working with a Google Ads Expert or Organic SEO Expert can align your SMS campaigns with broader marketing compliance and best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About California SMS Marketing
1. Do I really need permission to text my customers in California?
Yes! California takes SMS marketing seriously. You can’t just add someone to your text list without their clear consent. Customers need to know what kind of messages they’ll get and how often. Think of it as asking politely before sending a text; it builds trust and keeps you out of trouble.
2. Are there limits on when I can send marketing texts?
Absolutely. You can only send messages between 8 AM and 9 PM in your customer’s local time. Sending texts too early or too late isn’t just annoying; it can actually get you fined. Following the right timing rules shows respect for your audience.
3. How does the California Consumer Privacy Act affect my SMS marketing?
The CCPA means you have to be transparent about the data you collect. Customers should know how you’ll use their phone numbers and have the option to opt out of sharing or selling their information. It’s all about giving people control over their data while keeping your campaigns compliant.
4. What happens if I don’t follow California’s SMS rules?
Non-compliance can get expensive—think fines and legal headaches. But beyond that, it can also hurt your reputation. Customers might flag your messages as spam if you don’t provide clear consent, identity, or opt-out options. Following the rules keeps your audience happy and your business safe.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
If you want a team that handles SMS compliance, campaign setup, and ongoing support, ShaneWebGuy can help. From small projects to complex campaigns, we guide you from the first meeting to the final launch, ensuring your marketing is effective and legally compliant.
Website: https://shanewebguy.com
Phone: +1 (408) 915-5077
