Append geoprocessing tool fails with error 000262 in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, running the Append geoprocessing tool with a shapefile as the target dataset fails and the error described below is returned:

Error:
000262: Target <feature class name> is read only.
Failed to execute (Append).

Cause

The target dataset is read-only or locked, preventing tools like Append, Merge, or Edit from modifying it.

Solution or Workaround

Remove the read-only property of the target dataset

1. Open Windows File Explorer.
2. Locate the target dataset, right-click the file, and select Properties. In this example, the target dataset is a shapefile.
3. Uncheck the Read-only box and click Apply.

4. In ArcGIS Pro, to ensure there are no further issues, consider:
• Removing any existing joins if appending to a shapefile.
• Removing any file locks on the input dataset in the containing folder. Use the Compact tool if necessary.
• Refreshing the Catalog pane or restarting ArcGIS Pro to release temporary locks.