Apple has prohibited ads for home services in its upcoming Apple Maps advertising platform. The move follows the company's March 2026 announcement of plans to add ads to the app this summer in the US and Canada.
New guidelines released this week list several categories of banned content. These include defamatory material, illegal conduct, deceptive claims, drug-related promotions, and political ads. A specific rule targets home services.
"Ad content that contains or directly or indirectly promotes home services — including but not limited to plumbing, electrical, locksmith, HVAC, pest control, roofing, or general contracting services — is prohibited," the guidelines state.
Apple describes the ads as tools for discovery and navigation. The focus is on local businesses, restaurants, stores, and landmarks rather than service providers. This approach differs from competitors that already show ads for tradespeople on their mapping services.
The restrictions form part of Apple's expanding Services division, which includes subscriptions, app fees, and other ad placements.
