Resolving the Shopify Error: ‘This Action Requires Merchant Approval for Write_Themes Scope’

Have you encountered the error message “Errors: [API] This action requires merchant approval for write_themes scope” while working on your Shopify store? This error message can be perplexing, as it hinders your ability to modify your store’s themes through a private app. But fret not! This blog post will guide you through the steps to resolve this error and regain control over your themes.

Understanding the Error

In essence, this error indicates that the private app you’re using lacks the essential permissions to write or modify themes within your Shopify store. Shopify safeguards store themes by requiring explicit merchant approval before granting such permissions.

Resolving the Error

To grant the necessary permissions and conquer this error, follow these steps:

  1. Navigate to Your Shopify Admin Site: Begin by logging in to your Shopify admin site.
  2. Locate the ‘Apps and Sales Channels’ Section: Once logged in, navigate to the section labeled “Apps and sales channels.”
  3. Access ‘Develop Apps’: Within the “Apps and sales channels” section, find and select “Develop apps.”
  4. Choose the Relevant App: A list of your installed apps will be displayed. Select the specific app encountering the write theme permissions error.
  5. Edit Admin API Integration: After selecting the app, locate and click on the option to edit the Admin API integration.
  6. Grant Write Access: Within the Admin API integration settings, search for the section titled “Theme templates and theme assets.” Ensure that the write access permission is enabled for this section.
  7. Save the Changes: After granting write access, don’t forget to save the changes you’ve made to the Admin API integration settings.
  8. Rejoice! With these steps completed, you should be able to successfully use the theme kit without encountering the “This action requires merchant approval for write_themes scope” error message.

A Note on Terminology

It’s important to note that Shopify’s terminology has evolved. What were once called “private apps” are now referred to as “custom apps.” So, don’t be surprised if you encounter the term “custom app” instead of “private app” within your Shopify admin site.

By following these steps and understanding the reasoning behind the error message, you can effectively resolve the “This action requires merchant approval for write_themes scope” error and resume customizing your Shopify themes using your app.