Unable to select features on a web map in ArcGIS Online Map Viewer

Description

In Map Viewer, selecting features on a web map is useful for spatial analysis and data management. However, sometimes, the features on a web map cannot be selected.

Cause

This issue occurs due to one of the following causes:

• The feature layer underlies other layers, making it appear unselected when the desired layer is underneath a different layer. This can be confusing in scenarios such as when a polygon layer with transparent symbology is on top of a point layer. While the point layer may seem clickable, attempting to select the layer fails, and the polygon is selected instead.
• The map notes layer is visible on the map. As of April 2021, map notes are not supported in ArcGIS Online Map Viewer and are only compatible with Map Viewer Classic. Map notes behave as feature collections and are drawn as graphics by ArcGIS Online. Graphic layers overlie all feature layers and are always on top, thus preventing the selection of desired layers.

Solution or Workaround

Use one of the following options to select features on a web map in Map Viewer:

Reorganize the feature layer

In Map Viewer, reorganize the layers using the Reposition option to move the preferred feature layer to the top of the layer drawing list. Refer to ArcGIS Online: Manage and organize layers for instructions.

Disable the map notes layer visibility

In Map Viewer, disable the visibility of the map notes layer using the layer visibility toggle button. Refer to ArcGIS Online: Manage and organize layers for instructions.