ERROR

The layer, <layer_name>, cannot be added to the map

Last Published: January 14, 2022

Error Message

In ArcGIS Online, when viewing an existing web map in Map Viewer Classic, the following error message is returned:

Error:   
The layer, <layer_name>, cannot be added to the map.
An error message is returned upon opening Map Viewer Classic.

Cause

There are several reasons for this issue. Refer to GeoNet: Troubleshooting “Error: The layer, [layername], cannot be added to the map” in ArcGIS Online for more information.

Additionally, the error message is returned when one or more layers on the web map are inaccessible in ArcGIS Online Map Viewer Classic due to but not limited to the following causes:

  • The layer is not shared with the related group or restricts public access.
  • The layer is no longer available in the related group.
  • The layer has been deleted in ArcGIS Online.
  • The layer restricts non-administrator member access.
  • The browser cache on the machine is not cleared.

Solution or Workaround

Depending on the cause, use one of the options below to resolve the issue.

Ensure all layers on the web map are shared with the intended viewers

Save the web map without the inaccessible layer

Save the web map without the inaccessible layer if it is no longer needed. Refer to ArcGIS Online: Save maps (Map Viewer Classic) for more information.

Note:
It is not possible to recover a deleted item in ArcGIS Online. A preventive measure is to enable the ‘Delete Protection’ setting for the item. Refer to ArcGIS Blog: How to prevent accidental deletion for more information.

Remove and re-add the layer to the web map

In Map Viewer Classic, remove and re-add the layer to the web map.

  1. In Map Viewer Classic, in the Contents pane, browse to the layer, and click Remove.
  2. When prompted, click YES, REMOVE LAYER.
  3. On the top panel, click Add > Search for Layers.
  4. In the My Content pane, browse to the hosted feature layer, and click Add Click the Add button to add the layer to the web map. to add it to the web map.
  5. Click Save > Save to save the map.

Update the member’s default or custom role to enable administrative privileges

Note:
Only an organization's administrator can perform the following workflows.
Assign the administrative privilege to the member to allow viewing of the layer in the web map.

Clear the web browser cache

Clear the browsing history and cache on the machine to ensure a smooth performance of the browser.

Note:
It is sometimes necessary to use the incognito tab or other browsers to access the web map in Map Viewer Classic.

Article ID:000017323

Software:
  • ArcGIS Online

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