California Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Template

Our California NDA sample fits most standard business use case scenarios, like collaboration between individuals or companies in California.

However, this NDA sample doesn’t cover any employment scenarios, so use the Employee Non‑Disclosure Agreement template if that is your case.

California reference laws and regulations

• California Uniform Trade Secrets Act (CUTSA): a cornerstone act for most confidentiality and NDA agreements in California that defines and protects against trade secret theft.
• California Business & Professions Code § 16600 for non-compete and restraint of trade cases.
• California Code of Civil Procedure § 2019.210 for trade secret identification in litigation.

California law covers a wide range of privileged and confidential relationships which include conversations between an attorney and client as well as psychotherapist and patient. These are protected from being revealed unless a strong exception exists.

California's STAND Act limits the use of NDAs in sex-discrimination and harassment and abuse settlements. It requires revealing key settlement details and stops very broad confidentiality provisions.

Combined, these rules create a legal climate in California which respects confidentiality but won’t allow unlawful activity to be covered up or block transparency.

How you can customize your California NDA template

• Define "Confidential Information" strictly, aligning with CUTSA standards for trade secrets. Broad language makes it hard to maintain enforceability.
• Include carve-outs for legitimate disclosures. Allow whistleblower reporting and complaints to government bodies and legal consultations.
• Add clauses for service providers, restricting purpose, prohibiting secondary use, and ensuring security safeguards.
• Set appropriate confidentiality terms. Trade secrets may have indefinite protection, while general confidential information can have specific time limits.

Important Note

This California Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement template is a general legal document to be used in a generic California business transaction. For issues involving complex transactions, regulated industries, or disputes, California-licensed attorneys should be consulted.