topic Re: Stack map frames in layout? in ArcGIS Pro Questions

Stack map frames in layout?

RickardAndersson — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:01:36 GMT

This may be a stupid question. But isn't it possible to stack map frames in a layout?
the background covers the bottom frame even though the frame backgrounds are transparent... What gives?

Re: Stack map frames in layout?

JavierML — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:08:24 GMT

Hi Rickard.

From my understanding, the map frame backgrounds are by default transparent. Nonetheless, if the features of your top frame are opaque, those behind of them will not be seen.

Could you share more details about the idea you had thought about? Maybe some other options such as Map Series could be useful in your case

Re: Stack map frames in layout?

RickardAndersson — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:21:46 GMT

and there are no way to make the top layer (with transparent background) to show the frame underneath?

Sure.

I am making an 3D layout, and I would like the map to be "thicker" - with a soil texture underneath.

I have seen methods for this, primarily by drawing a polygon in the layout, then adding picture texture.

This method is easy when the map is square, however mine isn't. So my thought was to

1. Have the 3D topographic map in one frame

2. Have a second map frame with a 3D polygon with soil texture

3. Then placing the "flat" topographic map on the second map frame

a bit strange I know. I have also tried to make the 3D polygon in the project with a negative hight value to make it go down instead. did not work.

I hope this make sense