HOW TO

Create multiple buffers within a polygon in ArcGIS Pro

Last Published: May 27, 2024

Summary

The Buffer tool creates buffer polygons at specified distances around input features. However, it cannot simultaneously create multiple buffers around the features. The workflow provided uses the Multiple Ring Buffer tool in ArcGIS Pro to create multiple buffers within a polygon, as demonstrated in the image below.

Image of Multiple inside buffers

Procedure

  1. In ArcGIS Pro, navigate to the Analysis tab.
  2. On the Analysis tab, in the Geoprocessing group, click the Tools button The tools button.
  3. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and click Multiple Ring Buffer (Analysis Tools).
The Multiple Ring Buffer tool
  1. In the Multiple Ring Buffer pane, specify the parameters.
    1. For Input Features, select the feature layer from the drop-down list or click the Browse button The browse button.
Note:
Optionally, click the interactive feature input button The interactive feature input button to create new features in the current map to use as input.
  1. For Output Feature class, specify a location and name to export the feature class.
  2. For Distances, set a negative buffer distance to create a buffer inside the polygon feature.
  3. Click Add another The Add another button to add multiple buffer distances.
  4. For Distance Unit, select the linear unit to be used with the distance values from the drop-down.
  5. For Buffer Distance Field Name, edit the field name if required.
  6. For Dissolve Option and Method, select the appropriate options from the drop-down list.
  7. Uncheck the Outside Polygons Only check box.
  8. Click Run.
The Multiple Ring Buffer pane

Article ID: 000030119

Software:
  • ArcGIS Pro 3 1
  • ArcGIS Pro 3 0
  • ArcGIS Pro 2 x

Receive notifications and find solutions for new or common issues

Get summarized answers and video solutions from our new AI chatbot.

Download the Esri Support App

Get help from ArcGIS experts

Contact technical support

Download the Esri Support App

Go to download options