Import Kml File To Autocad |best| Jun 2026
| Problem | Explanation | Workaround | |--------|-------------|-------------| | | KML uses WGS84 (lat/lon, degrees). AutoCAD typically uses projected units (feet/meters). | Convert coordinates (e.g., to UTM) using GIS software before import. | | Scale & position | Without proper transformation, your KML may appear as tiny dots far from 0,0. | Use MAPIMPORT with coordinate system assignment or set insertion point manually. | | Loss of attributes | KML contains names, descriptions, styles. DXF/DWG stores only geometry. | Export as SHP with attribute table, then use Map 3D to link data. | | Complex geometry | KML supports nested folders, ground overlays, 3D models. AutoCAD flattens everything to 2D. | Simplify KML in Google Earth before export. | | Large KML files | Hundreds of points/paths can crash online converters or slow AutoCAD. | Use QGIS or Global Mapper to filter or simplify. |
Standard AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT cannot natively read KML files. To import them, you must use a plugin from the Autodesk App Store or other specialized tools: Import KML/KMZ files into AutoCAD Map 3D or Civil 3D import kml file to autocad
You must first convert the KML to a DWG-compatible format (like DXF or Shapefile) or use a third-party plugin. | | Scale & position | Without proper
| User Type | Best Method | Time | |-----------|-------------|------| | Occasional, small KML (<50 points) | Online converter (e.g., kml2dxf.com) | 2 min | | Frequent, large, or sensitive data | QGIS → DXF | 10 min (first time) | | Civil engineer with Map 3D | MAPIMPORT (via SHP) | 5 min | | AutoCAD user needing live Google Earth imagery | CAD-Earth plugin | 15 min setup | | One-time, simple shape | Manual coordinate entry | 30+ min (not worth it) | DXF/DWG stores only geometry
If your AutoCAD version doesn't support KML import or if you encounter issues with the built-in import feature, you can use Autodesk's KML to DWG Converter:
Importing a KML (Keyhole Markup Language) file into AutoCAD allows you to overlay geographic data from Google Earth onto your technical designs. While standard AutoCAD does not have a native, built-in "one-click" import for KML, specialized toolsets like AutoCAD Map 3D and Civil 3D provide direct commands to bridge this gap. Method 1: Using AutoCAD Map 3D or Civil 3D (Native)
