HOW TO

Georeference CAD data

Last Published: May 6, 2021

Summary

Georeferencing CAD data involves assigning a coordinate system and applying a transformation to the CAD data. The instructions provided describe how to georeference CAD data in ArcMap.

Procedure

Note:
Before georeferencing the CAD data, assign the desired projection. Refer to FAQ: How do I define the projection for ArcGIS data? for more information.
  1. In ArcMap, add the CAD data to the map.
  2. Open the Georeferencing toolbar. Navigate to Customize > Toolbars > Georeferencing.
  3. On the toolbar, select the desired CAD feature layer from the dataset.
The Georeferencing toolbar displaying the selected CAD feature layer.
  1. Zoom to the desired destination area, and navigate to Georeferencing > Fit To Display.
The Georeferencing drop-down menu displaying the Fit To Display option.
  1. To create the first link, click the Add Control Points tool, and snap to the endpoint of the desired parcel feature.
The Georeferencing toolbar displaying the description of the Add Control Points tool and its icon.
  1. To save the updates, click Georeferencing > Update Georeferencing.
The Georeferencing drop-down list displaying the Update Georeferencing option.
Note:
The CAD World File window displays. 
  1. In the CAD World File window, save the desired file name and file type as World.
  2. Click Save.

Article ID:000012808

Software:
  • ArcMap

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