The Layer to KML tool does not preserve the transparency set to the raster image in ArcMap when viewing the KML in Google Earth.
Last Published: August 19, 2020ArcGIS for Desktop
Bug ID Number
NIM099258
Submitted
February 22, 2014
Last Modified
June 5, 2024
Applies to
ArcGIS for Desktop
Version found
10.2
Status
Will Not Be Addressed
The development team has considered the issue or request and concluded it will not be addressed. The issue's Additional Information section may contain further explanation.
Additional Information
We apologize that we were unable to address this issue within the current product support cycle. If the issue continues to affect your work in a supported release, please contact Technical Support.
Workaround
1. Convert the layer to KMZ using the Map to KML tool.2. Change the extension of the file to .zip.3. Extract the archive.4. Edit the doc.kml file with Notepad to insert this line of text: <color>55ffffff</color>5. Repackage the file in a new .zip archive.6. Change the name to .kmz. 7. Open with Google Earth or Google Maps, and this shows transparency.