Add transparency to a layer

Summary

Most types of layers in ArcGIS can be set to display at some level of transparency. This allows the features beneath them to be viewable, while allowing partially transparent features to be viewable as well. This is a popular technique for creating shaded relief displays, where an elevation model is displayed with partial transparency over a hillshade model or vice versa.

Note:
Transparent symbology can increase the size of ArcMap's output and may exceed the capacity of the printer or computer involved. See the link in Related Information for information about 'out of memory' errors. 

Procedure

1. In ArcMap, navigate to the Effects toolbar.
   • In ArcGIS 9.3.1 or earlier - Select View > Toolbars > Effects.
   • In ArcGIS 10.0 or later - Select Customize > Toolbars > Effects.
   
   
2. On the Effects toolbar, select the layer to be made partially transparent.
   
   
3. On the Effects toolbar, click the transparency tool and adjust the slider to a specific percentage of transparency.
   
   
4. Repeat Step 3 as needed.