idea Create markup features from GPS location in ArcGIS Field Maps Ideas

Create markup features from GPS location

LindsayRaabe_FPCWA — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:59:35 GMT

Idea: In Field Maps, the markup function is a handy tool for quick random "note" type annotation on a map, though you know what would make it better? The ability to capture markup from the device location! That way, you could capture points, lines and polygons based on your location AND manual input. This combined with this idea would really enhance the usefulness of the markup function.

Use cases: Capture an important feature (e.g. contained fire edge) that you need to send to someone during emergency response for addition to incident maps when working at cross-departmental incidents without a common mapping platform.

Re: Create markup features from GPS location

RPGIS — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:35:53 GMT

You could simply create a dummy hosted service for the sole purpose of using it as a markup layer. We have done that from time to time and it also helps that we can download that layer if needed for other things.

Re: Create markup features from GPS location

LindsayRaabe_FPCWA — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:17:53 GMT

@RPGIS this isn't an option in this use case. When opening a geoPDF that is on the device in Field Maps, it is read-only and there are no layers available for data capture - only the markup feature. We typically have plenty of layer options in our maps, including one for exactly what you've suggested (when there is no other home for data).

Re: Create markup features from GPS location

Jeremy_Z — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:55:21 GMT

There's also an option to use the GeoPDF/Geospatial PDF as a basemap behind your data, so I'd think you could actually do this.

This doesn't help for emergency purposes if you still need a login to get to the hosted service.

Re: Create markup features from GPS location

LindsayRaabe_FPCWA — Tue, 12 May 2026 01:09:43 GMT

Yes, I'm aware that these are options, but in our use cases, it's specifically about opening PDFs from external sources that are served via a non-AGOL platform (e.g. QR Code linked web download). So no preconfiguring possible.