HOW TO

Set the angle alignment of layer marker symbols after importing an MXD file

Last Published: January 5, 2023

Summary

In ArcMap, on the Data Frame tab of the Advanced ArcMap Settings utility, users can choose to rotate all marker symbols with the data frame, when the data frame is rotated. This setting is applied to every marker symbol in the data frame. When this option is unchecked, marker symbols remain vertically oriented in the monitor’s display. Marker symbols have a rotation value, but there is no interface control to individually rotate the symbols per layer in ArcMap.

Conversely, in ArcGIS Pro, the Angle Alignment property must be updated manually for every marker symbol in the map that requires the adjustment. There is no equivalent setting that can be applied to all layers in a map or scene.

Procedure

An ArcGIS Pro registry key can be updated to set the angle alignment property for point symbols when importing ArcMap documents.

Warning:   
The instructions below include making changes to essential parts of your operating system. It is recommended that you backup your operating system and files, including the registry, before proceeding. Consult a qualified computer systems professional, if necessary.

Esri cannot guarantee results from incorrect modifications while following these instructions. Therefore, use caution and proceed 
at your own risk.
  1. Close ArcGIS Pro, if it is open.
  2. From the Windows desktop, click Start > Run.
  3. Type regedit into the text box.
  4. Click OK.
  5. Navigate to the following Registry hive:
\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\ESRI\ArcGISPro\Symbology\Settings
  1. Right-click the window, and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  2. Name the value RotateWithTransform, and press Enter to update the name. Ensure the Data value is set to 0 (0x00000000).
  3. Restart ArcGIS Pro. Re-import any maps or .mxd documents, if necessary.

Article ID: 000029171

Software:
  • ArcGIS Pro 3 0
  • ArcGIS Pro 2 8 x
  • ArcGIS Pro 2 7 x
  • ArcGIS Pro 2 x

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