Skip to main content

Import Property Boundary (KML)

The KML Import feature allows you to create a new property by uploading an existing KML file instead of drawing geometry manually.

This is useful when property boundaries are provided by:

  • surveyors
  • GIS exports
  • Google Earth
  • county appraisal districts
  • third-party consultants

Where to Find It

  1. Open New Property
  2. In the map view, click Import KML (bottom-left of the map)
  3. Select a .kml file from your computer

Supported Geometry Types

The importer accepts the following geometry types:

  • Polygon / MultiPolygon
    Used for property boundaries (preferred)

  • Point / MultiPoint
    Used for site locations when no boundary is available

Unsupported geometry (such as LineStrings) is ignored.


Single Geometry Files

If the KML file contains exactly one supported geometry:

  • The geometry is imported immediately
  • The map automatically zooms to the property
  • The Create Property popup opens with the geometry pre-filled

No additional steps are required.


Multiple Geometry Files

If the KML file contains multiple supported geometries:

  1. A Select Geometry popup appears
  2. Each geometry is listed with:
    • Name (from the KML placemark)
    • Geometry type
    • Center coordinates
    • Area (when available)
  3. Clicking a row:
    • Selects the geometry
    • Automatically zooms the map to preview it
  4. Click Use selected to proceed

This prevents accidental imports and ensures the correct geometry is chosen.

The selection popup is draggable so you can reposition it while inspecting the map.


Automatic Map Zoom

The map automatically zooms when:

  • A KML is imported
  • A geometry is selected in the selection popup
  • A different geometry is clicked during selection

This makes it easy to visually confirm the correct property before saving.


Editing After Import

Once imported:

  • The geometry behaves the same as a drawn shape
  • You can edit attributes in the Create Property popup
  • Clearing the geometry removes the preview from the map

File Requirements

  • File extension: .kml
  • Encoding: UTF-8
  • Coordinate system: WGS84 (standard KML)

KMZ (zipped KML) files are not currently supported.


Best Practices

  • Export only the property boundary when possible
  • If exporting multiple parcels, name placemarks clearly
  • Avoid extremely large or regional boundaries unless intentional

Common Issues

No geometry found

  • The KML does not contain Polygon or Point geometries

Wrong boundary selected

  • Use the geometry selection popup to preview and choose the correct one

Map does not zoom

  • Ensure the geometry is valid and within expected coordinates

Summary

KML Import provides a fast, reliable way to create properties from existing GIS data while maintaining full control and visibility:

  • No manual drawing required
  • Safe handling of multi-geometry files
  • Visual confirmation before saving
  • Seamless integration with the property creation workflow

Use KML import whenever authoritative boundary data is available.