Yes — if your website uses cookies that collect personal data or track user behavior, you must have a cookie policy. This requirement applies under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the ePrivacy Directive (Cookie Law), especially if your website is accessible to users in the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA).
What Is a Cookie Policy?
A cookie policy is a document that explains:
• What cookies your website uses
• Why they are used
• Whether third parties are involved
• How users can manage or withdraw consent
It’s often presented alongside your privacy policy and is a key part of your overall compliance strategy.
When Is a Cookie Policy Required?
You need a cookie policy if:
• Your website uses cookies beyond those that are strictly necessary
• You use tools like Google Analytics, Meta Pixel, or third-party advertising scripts
• You collect any personal data via cookies
• You operate in, or provide services to, users in the EU or EEA
Even if you’re located outside the EU, GDPR still applies if your website targets or monitors EU users.
Legal Framework
Your obligation to provide a cookie policy comes from:
• GDPR Article 5(1)(a): Requires transparency in data processing
• GDPR Article 6(1)(a): Requires user consent as a lawful basis for non-essential cookies
• ePrivacy Directive Article 5(3): Requires prior consent before storing or accessing information on a user’s device
What Should Be Included?
Your cookie policy should include:
• A definition of what cookies are
• A list or table of cookies used (name, purpose, duration, provider)
• The categories of cookies (necessary, analytics, marketing, etc.)
• Information about third-party services
• How users can accept, reject, or withdraw consent
• Links to your cookie settings and privacy policy
Do You Need a Cookie Banner Too?
Yes. A cookie banner or pop-up is required to:
• Request and manage user consent before setting cookies
• Provide access to cookie settings
• Link to the full cookie policy
Your cookie banner and policy should work together as part of a compliant Consent Management Platform (CMP).
Conclusion
If your website uses cookies that track, analyze, or store personal data, a cookie policy isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement. By providing a transparent and user-friendly cookie policy, you ensure compliance, reduce legal risk, and build trust with your visitors.