ERROR

Failed to delete selected object(s)

Last Published: April 25, 2020

Error Message

Attempting to delete a data set in ArcCatalog fails and returns the message:

"Failed to delete selected object(s)."

Cause

The data may have read-only permissions.

Solution or Workaround



Change the operating system permissions on the files you need to delete.

A. Start Windows Explorer.
B. Navigate to the shapefile
C. Select the appropriate files.
D. Right-click and select Properties.
E. Uncheck the Read-Only option.
F. Click Apply and OK.



Note:
The Delete menu option is always enabled in ArcCatalog, as file permissions are only checked when actually executing the command. This behavior is by design and improves the overall performance of ArcCatalog.

Article ID: 000003486

Software:
  • ArcMap 8 x

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