Rules for Selling .dk Domains: Can You Sell a Domain With No Content?

Many people think a domain is just a commodity you can freely buy and sell — like an item in a classifieds ad. For .dk domains, reality is more nuanced, and there are actually rules you need to know before listing a domain for sale.

This article is a general introduction to the rules, not legal advice for your specific situation. If in doubt, seek guidance from DK Hostmaster or a lawyer specializing in domain law. Note that this article describes Danish domain law specifically — rules for other country domains or generic domains (.com, .net, etc.) may differ.

Am I allowed to sell a .dk domain that isn't being used for anything?

Here's the core of the rules: it is a violation of Section 12(1) of the Danish Domain Act and the principle of "good domain practice" to register or hold a domain solely for the purpose of reselling it, without putting it to any real use. In other words, you're not allowed to be what's practically known as a "domain shark" — someone who buys up domains purely to resell them at a high price.

So when is it actually permitted to sell a domain?

• If the domain is actively used — e.g. for a website, webshop or email addresses — and you want to sell it for business reasons as part of, or alongside, a working website.
• If a buyer approaches you unsolicited and asks whether they can buy a domain you already own, you're allowed to make the deal — regardless of whether the domain is actively used or not.
• If there's genuine content on the domain — a single subpage stating that the domain is for sale isn't enough to count as genuine use. The problem arises specifically when the "for sale" page is the only thing on the domain.

What do trademarks have to do with selling a domain?

Registering a domain name doesn't automatically give you a trademark right to the name — only a technical right to use it as a web address. If you sell or buy a domain that resembles or matches a registered trademark, a well-known company name, or another business's name, you risk a dispute (e.g. a UDRP case or a complaint to the Danish Domain Name Complaints Board), which at worst costs you the domain plus legal fees on top. Avoid domains that could be confused with established brands, no matter how tempting a quick deal looks.

How does the actual transfer of a .dk domain work?

Once buyer and seller have agreed, a .dk domain is officially transferred through DK Hostmaster, which administers the Danish domain name system. The transfer typically happens by the seller filling out a transfer form with DK Hostmaster or their registrar, after which the new ownership is registered. Make sure to have a written agreement on price and terms before starting the transfer — just as with any other asset sale.

In short

• You may not buy and hold domains solely to resell them without real use.
• You may sell a domain if it's in active use, or if a buyer approaches you unsolicited.
• Avoid domains that match other people's trademarks or company names.
• The transfer itself happens via DK Hostmaster.

Want to sell a working website rather than a bare domain? Create your listing with us.

Frequently asked questions

Am I allowed to sell a .dk domain I'm not using for anything?

No, generally not. It's a violation of the Danish Domain Act and the principle of "good domain practice" to register or hold a domain solely to resell it, without putting it to real use.

So when is it permitted to sell a domain?

Among other things, if the domain is actively used for e.g. a website or webshop, if a buyer approaches you unsolicited wanting to buy a domain you already own, or if there's genuine content on the site — a single "for sale" page isn't enough.

Could I lose a domain because it resembles a well-known trademark?

Yes. If you sell or buy a domain that resembles or matches a registered trademark or well-known company name, you risk a dispute that at worst costs you the domain plus legal fees on top.