You can distribute your Mac app without signing, but customers have to set their preferences to accept unsigned apps, which is not the default. So not advisable.
So you sort of need Apple's permission. But, as long as you are prepared to stump up the ~$100 per year and don't do anything stupid, then the certificate and notarization shouldn't be an issue. I haven't heard of any bona fide developers being refused a certificate. And I haven't had any issue with notarization (yet).
So you sort of need Apple's permission. But, as long as you are prepared to stump up the ~$100 per year and don't do anything stupid, then the certificate and notarization shouldn't be an issue. I haven't heard of any bona fide developers being refused a certificate. And I haven't had any issue with notarization (yet).