generated: '2026-07-21'
method: searched
source: https://developer.shopline.com/docs/apps/development-tool/development-stores/overview
docs: https://developer.shopline.com/docs/apps/development-tool/development-stores/overview
model: development stores
summary: >-
  SHOPLINE's test environment is the "development store" - a free store on the
  SHOPLINE premium plan used to build and test apps and themes. There is no
  separate test/live API key prefix; testing is done against a real (free)
  development store. Developers can create an unlimited number of development
  stores.
development_stores:
  cost: free (built on the SHOPLINE premium plan)
  quantity: unlimited
  default_test_data: optional (choose whether to populate with default test data)
  categories:
    - name: For testing
      purpose: Develop and test your apps or themes
      transferable: false
    - name: Tailored for specific merchants
      purpose: Pre-configure and test a store before transferring it to a merchant (earns commission on transfer)
      transferable: true
  capabilities:
    - Create an unlimited number of orders for free testing
    - Access most features of the SHOPLINE premium plan
  limitations:
    - Plan cannot be changed while it is a development store (merchant can change plan after transfer)
association: The SHOPLINE CLI associates a development store for local app development and preview