CRMLS rules for digitally altered photos
CRMLS, the California Regional MLS, updated rule 11.5.2 for 2026. It asks for a label in the photo description, the original photo next to the altered one. It never allows changing real parts of the home.
Rules checked on · A plain summary, not legal advice: check your MLS’s own rule text.
What counts as altered
- Any edit that changes what the photo shows, including AI edits.
- Virtual staging.
- Virtually clearing furniture that does not come with the sale.
How to label it
Write it in the photo’s description field, for example “Digitally altered” or “Virtually staged”.
Where the original goes
Add the unaltered photo immediately before or after the altered one, so buyers see both side by side.
What you may never change
Even with a label, you cannot add, remove or change a real part of the property:
- Wall color
- Flooring
- Cabinets
- Walls and room size
- Landscaping
If a photo breaks the rule, CRMLS compliance contacts you to fix it.
California law applies too
Since January 1, 2026, the state law AB 723 also asks for a statement on or next to altered photos and a way to see the original. Read the AB 723 guide.
Questions and answers
Where does the label go in CRMLS?
In the photo’s description field, with words such as “Digitally altered” or “Virtually staged”. CRMLS does not ask for text on the photo itself.
Do AI edits count as altering the photo?
Yes, when they change what the photo shows. The 2026 CRMLS FAQ says AI edits count. So does virtually clearing furniture that does not come with the sale.
Can I change the wall color with a label?
No. CRMLS does not allow adding, removing or changing any real part of the property, including wall color, floors, cabinets, walls and landscaping, even with a label.
What happens if a photo breaks the rule?
CRMLS compliance contacts the listing agent to fix it.
Sources
Edit your listing photo, keep the original.
Start with one photo. Your original always stays as you took it.