Terms of Service

Last updated: February 17, 2026

1. Agreement to Terms

By downloading and using Kindling, you agree to these terms. Kindling is provided under the MIT License.

2. Description of Software

Kindling is a free, open-source desktop application for fiction writers. It runs locally on your computer (macOS, Windows, Linux). It imports outline files (Plottr .pltr, yWriter .yw7, Markdown .md) and provides a scaffolded writing environment. It exports to DOCX and Markdown formats. Kindling does not require an account, internet connection, or subscription.

3. License

Kindling is released under the MIT License. You may use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell copies of the software. The full license text is available at: https://github.com/smith-and-web/kindling/blob/main/LICENSE

4. Data & Privacy

Kindling does not collect, transmit, or store any personal data. All project files are stored locally on your computer as SQLite databases. Kindling does not communicate with any external servers. Kindling does not include analytics, telemetry, or tracking of any kind. For website data practices, see our Privacy Policy.

5. No Warranty

Kindling is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and noninfringement. In no event shall the authors or copyright holders be liable for any claim, damages or other liability, whether in an action of contract, tort or otherwise, arising from, out of or in connection with the software or the use or other dealings in the software.

6. Third-Party Content

Kindling imports files created by third-party applications (Plottr, yWriter, Obsidian Longform, etc.). Kindling is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to these third-party applications. Import functionality is provided for user convenience only.

7. Uninstallation

Kindling can be fully removed from your system at any time. See uninstall instructions. Kindling does not install background services, browser extensions, startup items, or system-level modifications. Uninstalling Kindling does not delete your project files — they remain on your computer.

8. Changes to Terms

We may update these terms from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. Continued use of Kindling after changes constitutes acceptance.

9. Contact

For questions about these terms: GitHub Issues. For general inquiries: Discord server.