YouTube has announced new rules for live streaming, effective from July 22, 2025, requiring creators to be at least 16 years old to stream independently. Previously, creators aged 13 to 15 could stream alone, while those under 13 needed an adult guardian on camera.
Under the new guidelines, anyone under 16 will require an adult present on camera during live streams, including those aged 13 to 15. YouTube has outlined strict penalties for violations, including:
- Temporary suspension of features like live chat and Super Chat.
- Permanent channel deactivation for repeated violations.
- Attempting to bypass rules by creating multiple channels will also be considered a policy violation.
YouTube will notify creators via email if their streams are removed due to non-compliance. For creators under 16 who wish to live stream, an adult must be added as a channel editor, manager, or owner. The adult must be visibly present on camera during significant portions of the stream.
While YouTube has not provided detailed reasons for the change, experts suggest the move aims to enhance online safety, combat cyberbullying, and strengthen child protection measures. As global online child safety laws become stricter, platforms like YouTube are proactively updating their policies to comply.