Google to update Local Services Ads policies in July

Google will update its Local Services Ads policies on July 6th, renaming "Local Services platform policies" to "Local Services Ads requirements." This policy refresh aims to improve readability, revise terminology, and remove outdated advertiser requirements, aligning them with the company's recently overhauled Local Services Ads badge system. The changes are described as administrative but could enable Google to more directly link compliance standards to badge status in the future. Advertisers, including agencies and local businesses, are advised to note these updates as maintaining verification credentials and meeting platform standards remains crucial for success in Local Services Ads. The company states the policy refresh is intended to simplify existing rules and modernize communication of requirements to businesses, rather than representing a significant policy crackdown. The update focuses on a badge-driven approach to trust and eligibility for advertisers.