Restricted / Prohibited Product Policy
How to appeal an Amazon restricted / prohibited product policy.
Amazon prohibits, gates, or requires additional approval for certain products and categories — from safety-regulated goods to categories like supplements, medical devices, or hazardous materials. This notice means a listing was flagged as violating that policy.
What triggers this notice
Often it's a category that requires pre-approval or certification the seller didn't have before listing, but it can also be a product that's restricted outright regardless of documentation. The notice usually specifies which policy was violated — that determines whether the path forward is certification or removal.
What Amazon's reviewers want to see
This violation is about listing something Amazon doesn't allow, or allows only with approval/certification. The appeal needs to show the listing is removed (or brought into compliance with required certification), and that a check now exists before any new product goes live. Do not argue the policy is unfair — focus entirely on compliance going forward.
Common mistakes that get appeals rejected
- Arguing the product should be allowed instead of confirming removal or compliance.
- Not checking whether the category requires a specific certification or approval to list at all.
- Leaving similar non-compliant products live while appealing one listing.
Evidence and documentation to gather
- Screenshot confirming the listing is removed or deactivated
- Any required certification, license, or approval documentation
- Updated new-product listing checklist
How long does it take?
Amazon's Seller Performance team typically reviews restricted-product appeals within about a week.
Timelines vary case by case — Amazon's own communication about your specific case is always the most reliable source.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just acknowledge the violation instead of appealing?
Amazon offers an acknowledge option for some policy violations, which keeps it on your account health record for 180 days but avoids a drawn-out appeal. It's worth considering if you don't intend to sell that product again.
How do I know if my category needs pre-approval?
Check the category's requirements page in Seller Central before relisting anything similar — categories like medical devices, supplements, and several others require approval regardless of how the individual listing looks.
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