The Squarespace Developer Platform is a specialized tool for advanced developers to customize version 7.0 sites beyond standard customization options. This guide answers common questions about its functionality and limitations.

Intended Audience

The Developer Platform is specifically designed for experienced developers and agencies with expertise in:

• HTML
• LESS CSS
• JSON-T
• GitHub

Most users should instead use built-in customization options like custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Capabilities

What You Can Do:

• Create custom templates for version 7.0 sites
• Modify existing version 7.0 templates
• Access template markup, stylesheets, and design assets

Limitations:

• No version 7.1 site customization
• No CMS content access
• No server-side code implementation
• Cannot modify default scripts or styles
• No block or cover page customization

Effects of Developer Mode

When Enabled:

• Demo content becomes invisible
• Template switching is disabled
• Template-specific updates are paused
• Changes require publishing to go live

When Disabled:

• All developer customizations are removed
• Site reverts to default settings
• Custom layouts and integrations stop working
• Navigation menus reset
• Custom blog post types revert to defaults
• Sidebar, header, and footer customizations disappear

Plan Requirements and Restrictions

Trial Period:

• Full access to developer mode
• No expiration date
• Must upgrade to Business plan or higher to continue

Plan Changes:

• Downgrading to Personal plan restricts further changes
• Existing customizations remain until billing cycle ends
• Upgrade to Business or higher to regain full access

Technical Considerations

Login Issues:

• Two-factor authentication requires app password
• Social login users need alternative authentication

Support Limitations:

• Basic platform assistance available
• No custom code troubleshooting
• Users should be self-sufficient with code issues

Resources:

• Squarespace Forum for peer support
• Developer documentation
• GitHub community

The Developer Platform remains a powerful tool for experienced developers while requiring careful consideration of its limitations and requirements before implementation.

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