Using the Buffer tool

Using the Buffer tool

Overview

A buffer is a zone/radius with a specific measurement around a feature. The buffer tool allows you to create and save a new feature based on a buffered area from an existing point, line or polygon.

Why Create a Buffer?

Buffers are useful in many areas of work. This includes:
  1. Planning. Drawing a buffer around a train station to see what land and property is affected by planning laws.
  2. Environment. Drawing a buffer around a river to mark a no-build area.
  3. Safety. Marking a danger zone around an emergency response site.

Create a Buffer

To create a buffer from a point, line or area:
  1. Click on the feature that you want to buffer
  2. Click the "Create Buffer icon" in the left-hand panel (you may have to expand the set of quick-tools.
  3. Enter a distance and the units for the radius of your buffer. 
  4. Tick the Save Buffer tick-box to display the save options.
    1. Saving to the Annotation Layer will save it to your personal annotation layer.
    2. Saving to a Map Layer prompts you to choose the layer and enter any relevant attributes.
  5. Click Save