In SVG icon libraries, CC0 usually means the icon is dedicated to the public domain, so you can use, copy, modify, and redistribute it with no restrictions. A related but different label is Creative Commons license , which may require attribution or other conditions depending on the exact version, so the exact text matters.

What “CC0” means

  • CC0 is the most permissive option.
  • It is often used for open icon sets and design assets.
  • In practice, it means “no rights reserved” as far as copyright allows.

What to check on an icon site

  • Look for the exact license name, such as CC0, CC BY, CC BY-SA, or CC BY-NC.
  • Check whether attribution is required.
  • Check whether commercial use is allowed.
  • Check whether derivative works are allowed.

In SVG icon libraries

Some sites label icons as “CC0” to signal that the icons are free to use without attribution, while others use Creative Commons licenses that still impose conditions. The safest move is to read the license line attached to that specific icon or pack, not just the site header.

Practical example

If an icon is marked CC0 , you can usually drop it into your app or website without crediting the author. If it is marked CC BY , you normally need to give attribution somewhere visible or in your project credits.

TL;DR: in SVG icons, CC0 = public-domain-style freedom , while other Creative Commons labels can still require attribution or other limits.