Create a 3D label for a feature class based on the surface layer height in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

Labeling refers to the automated generation and positioning of descriptive text for features on maps and scenes. In ArcGIS Pro, a 3D label can be created to improve feature visibility by deriving the height values from the surface layer using the Interpolate Shape tool. This method helps identify various features located at varying elevations in the topographical landscape. The workflow provided in this article involves creating point feature classes from the polygon features. The Maplex Label Engine is then used to label the point feature classes.

Procedure

Note:
The Interpolate Shape tool requires a 3D Analyst license.

1. Open the scene in ArcGIS Pro.
2. Create point feature classes from the input features using the Feature To Point tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select Feature To Point (Data Management Tools).
   2. In the Feature To Point pane, for Input Features, select the feature layer from the drop-down list. In this example, the polygon feature layer is used.
   3. For Output Features Class, specify a name and location to export the feature class.
   4. Click Run.

3. Create 3D point features by interpolating z-values from the surface layer using the Interpolate Shape tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select Interpolate Shape (3D Analyst Tools).
   2. In the Interpolate Shape pane, for Input Surface, select the surface layer from the drop-down list. In this example, the LAS dataset layer is used.
   3. For Input Features, select the output feature layer in Step 2 from the drop-down list.
   4. For Output Feature Class, specify a name and location to export the feature class.
   5. For Method, select the preferred interpolation method to determine elevation values for the output features from the drop-down list. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Parameters for more information.
   6. Click Run.

4. Label the point feature classes and adjust the point label position using the Maplex Label Engine. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Specify a point label position for instructions.

The image below shows the 3D labels of the feature classes within the surface layer in ArcGIS Pro.