About .bzh domain
.bzh is a sponsored generic top-level domain (sTLD) operated by the Association www.bzh, with technical backend services provided by AFNIC. It was delegated in the root zone in June 2014 after ICANN approved the application. The extension was created specifically to serve as a dedicated digital namespace for a defined community, with registration managed according to a set of eligibility criteria.
Who can register .bzh domain
Registration for a .bzh domain is restricted. Eligible registrants include individuals or legal entities residing in the defined Breton cultural area, which includes the historical region of Brittany and Loire-Atlantique. Eligibility is also extended to those who commit to publishing a website with content in the Breton language or content promoting Breton culture within six months of registration. Additionally, members of the sponsoring association, www.bzh, can register.
How to register .bzh domain
- Search for your desired .bzh domain name at an accredited registrar to check its availability. Ensure you meet the TLD's eligibility requirements before proceeding.
- Select a registrar that offers .bzh registrations and review their pricing, registration term options, and any bundled services like WHOIS privacy, if available for this extension.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate contact information. You may be required to declare or later demonstrate your eligibility under one of the .bzh registration criteria.
- After purchase, verify your contact details and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider. The domain will be active once the registry validates the registration.
Typical uses of .bzh domain
The .bzh extension is predominantly used by individuals, businesses, cultural associations, and public institutions connected to the Breton region and its cultural identity. It is chosen to visibly express a link to Brittany, support the local language, and foster a distinct digital community. Common registrants include local shops, artists, tourism boards, and advocacy groups who use the TLD to signal their regional affiliation and authenticity to a targeted audience.
Tips for registering .bzh domain
- Registrations require a commitment to publish a qualifying website within six months if eligibility is based on content, not residency or association membership.
- The registry, Association www.bzh, enforces its eligibility rules and may conduct audits to ensure compliance with the TLD's charter.
- The TLD is subject to standard dispute resolution policies like the UDRP for addressing trademark conflicts over domain names.
Frequently asked questions about .bzh domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .bzh domain?
As of today, .bzh domains start from $19.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $101.90/yr across 11 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .bzh domains?
NameBeta tracks 11 registrars that support .bzh domain registration, with the cheapest option at $19.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .bzh domain?
The registry for .bzh domains is Association www.bzh.
Who can register a .bzh domain?
Registration is open to individuals and entities that meet specific criteria. You must either reside in the defined geographic area, be a member of the www.bzh association, or commit to publishing website content in Breton or about Breton culture. Registrars will typically ask you to confirm your eligibility during the application process, and the registry may verify this information.
Can I transfer a .bzh domain between registrars?
Transferring a .bzh domain between registrars follows the standard EPP transfer process, provided the domain is unlocked and you have the correct authorization code. Ensure the domain's registration details are up-to-date and that it is not within a 60-day lock period following a previous transfer or registration. The new registrar will also confirm your ongoing eligibility for the .bzh TLD as part of the transfer.
What happens if I don't publish a qualifying website within six months?
If your eligibility was based on a commitment to publish Breton language or cultural content, failing to do so within the six-month window may result in the suspension or deletion of your domain name by the registry. It is important to understand and adhere to the terms of registration. The registry maintains the right to enforce these rules to preserve the TLD's intended purpose for the community.
Can I register a .bzh domain if I live outside of France?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Geographic residency is just one path to eligibility. If you do not live in the defined region, you can still register by becoming a member of the www.bzh association or by committing to publish a website with the required Breton-focused content. The key is demonstrating a genuine link to the Breton cultural and linguistic community as defined by the registry's policies.
Are there any special dispute policies for .bzh domains?
Beyond the standard Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) that applies to all gTLDs, the .bzh registry may have additional community-based challenge mechanisms outlined in its charter. These could allow for objections based on non-compliance with the TLD's eligibility or usage requirements. It's advisable to review the registry's specific policies for details on how they handle disputes related to their community rules.
