Frequently asked question
No, it is not possible to remove or modify basemap labels as they are part of the imagery. However, it is possible to use a basemap with less labels or customize a vector basemap to meet the desired specification. Choose one of the workarounds below, depending on the need, to have a basemap with minimal or no labels in ArcGIS Online.
A base basemap has minimal or no labels compared to the default basemap or most basemap selections. To use a base basemap:
If a blank basemap is preferred, create a blank basemap and add it to the basemap gallery according to the steps outlined in How To: Create a blank basemap for ArcGIS Online.
A vector basemap is customizable and the properties of the Esri basemap can be changed. This method requires users to download, validate the code using an online app such as JSON Lint, edit labels in a text editor or a code editor, and update the basemap using the modified JSON code. Below are the resources for steps to modify the JSON code:
The ArcGIS Vector Tile Style Editor (Beta) app is a user-friendly alternative to customize Esri Vector Basemaps. However, as of January 2019, this editing app is still in beta release. Minor changes may be expected when the app is officially released. For additional information, refer to ArcGIS Blog: Design custom basemaps with the new ArcGIS Vector Tile Style Editor .
The ArcGIS Vector Tile Style Editor (Beta) app contains multiple selections of base basemaps. To use a base basemap in this app:
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