Learn about the data formats we accept in Google's Complete Map Content Specifications.
We do accept all formats of base map (vector) data; however, when data is submitted in the formats described below, it makes it easier and quicker for Google to ingest it.
Supported data formats are:
- ESRI Shapefile (most preferred)
- KML/KMZ with the data represented as SchemaData and SimpleFields (preferred) or ExtendedData.
- DBF or CSV - If CSV, make sure it is comma-delimited, with each column surrounded by quotes to prevent issues with commas in names, etc. Also ensure that there is a header row.
Additionally:
- Please use UTF-8 character encoding for vector attributes. UTF-16 and UTF-32 are also accepted.
- Please, no special character encodings!
- We prefer files to be < 1GB.
- For lookup tables, DBF or CSV is acceptable. If CSV, make sure it is comma-delimited, with each column surrounded by quotes to prevent issues with commas in names, etc. Also ensure that there is a header row.
- FGDC formatted Metadata recommended.
- We do not have standards on field types, field widths, domains, etc.
- Please refer to the the Help Section about WMS and WFS. (FIXME: Insert link)