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How to Search Gis Map
You can search the Fresno County Gis Map by using the county’s online GIS viewer to look up property details, parcel numbers, streets, and public facilities. The search tool works directly in your web browser, so you do not need to install any special software, allowing researchers to cross-reference the official fresno county public records for updated records. When you enter an address, parcel number, or place name, the system finds the matching location and drops a marker on the map. You can then zoom in, view property lines, and check nearby features without leaving the page.
The search process pulls live data from the county’s GIS database, which stores layers for parcels, roads, zoning, flood zones, and aerial imagery. Each search gives you a small popup window with the matched record, and you can click through for more details. If you want to print or save what you find, the viewer has built-in buttons for exporting the view as a PDF or image file.
Official Search Portal: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Information-Technology-Services-Department/GIS-Geographic-Information-Systems
Steps to Search
- Open the Fresno County GIS search portal in your web browser using the link above.
- Click the search bar or magnifying glass icon at the top of the map viewer.
- Type a street address, parcel number, or place name into the search field.
- Pick the correct match from the list of results that appears below the search bar.
- Wait for the map to zoom to your selected location and display the result marker.
- Click the marker or the popup window to view more details about the property or feature.
- Use the layer list on the side of the screen to turn on or off specific data layers like parcels, zoning, or flood zones.
- Save or print your map view using the tools in the top toolbar if you need a copy.
What the Fresno County GIS Map Shows
The Fresno County GIS Map shows parcels, roads, zoning districts, public facilities, flood zones, aerial photos, and many other geographic data layers for the entire county. You can view the map as a clean street base, a satellite image, or a topographic view. The viewer overlays property boundaries, government borders, and utility features on top of the base map so you can see how land is used and who owns each piece of property.
The map covers all 6,000 square miles of Fresno County, from the urban core around the city of Fresno to the rural Sierra Nevada foothills and the flat San Joaquin Valley farmland. Users from real estate, construction, agriculture, and local government rely on this tool to research land records, plan projects, and answer public questions about properties and neighborhoods.
Interactive Map
You can access the interactive map by visiting the official Fresno County GIS portal on the county website. The viewer loads directly in your browser, so you do not need a special app or login to start searching. Once the page opens, you see a full-screen map with a search bar at the top and a list of available layers on the side.
The interactive map is free for public use, and most features work without signing in. Some advanced tools, like downloading raw GIS data files, may require a free account or direct contact with the GIS Division. The site works on desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, so you can pull up parcel data from the field or the office.
Navigating the Map Interface
The map interface shows a large map area in the center with toolbars along the top and side panels for layers, search results, and map details. The top toolbar holds buttons for zooming, panning, measuring, printing, and sharing your current view. The side panel lists all the data layers you can turn on or off, such as parcels, roads, and aerial imagery.
You navigate the map by clicking and dragging to move in any direction, using the scroll wheel to zoom in and out, or clicking the plus and minus buttons in the corner. A small overview map in the corner helps you keep track of where you are within the county, and a scale bar shows the distance represented by the map at the current zoom level.
Map Legend
The map legend lists the symbols, colors, and line types used for each active layer so you can read the map correctly. You open the legend by clicking the legend icon, which shows a small key explaining what each color and shape means. For example, yellow lines often mark parcel boundaries, while blue shading shows water features or flood zones.
Each layer has its own entry in the legend, and the symbols change as you zoom in and out. A thin line might represent a small street at one zoom level but show as a wider corridor at a closer view. The legend updates automatically as you turn layers on and off, so you always see only the symbols that match the data you have selected.
GIS Map Layers
The Fresno County GIS Map layers let you turn specific types of data on or off so you can see only the information you need. Each layer covers a different theme, such as parcels, roads, zoning, or flood zones, and the viewer can display many layers at the same time. You control the layers through the layer list panel, where each layer has a checkbox and an option to zoom to that layer’s full extent.
Layer transparency and order can be adjusted, so you can place aerial imagery behind parcel boundaries or fade the zoning layer to see streets more clearly. The viewer remembers your layer settings during your session, so you do not have to re-enable them every time you pan the map. Below is a quick reference of the main layers and what they display.
| Layer Name | What It Shows | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Parcel Boundaries | Property lines and APN numbers | Real estate and tax research |
| Roads and Streets | Streets, highways, and road names | Navigation and address lookup |
| Aerial Imagery | Satellite and aerial photos | Visual reference and planning |
| Zoning | Zoning districts and codes | Land use and development |
| Land Use | General plan land use categories | Planning and agriculture |
| Flood Zones | FEMA flood hazard areas | Insurance and building safety |
| Administrative Boundaries | City limits, supervisorial districts | Government and voting |
Parcel Boundaries Layer
The parcel boundaries layer shows the legal property lines for every parcel in Fresno County, along with the APN for each lot. The lines are drawn over the base map in a contrasting color, and the APN labels appear when you zoom in close enough. This layer is the most-used layer on the site, as it is the basis for property research, tax lookups, and real estate transactions.
Parcel boundaries are maintained by the Fresno County Assessor’s office and updated regularly to reflect new subdivisions, mergers, and lot line adjustments. The data matches the official parcel maps and is the same data used by the county for property tax billing.
Roads and Transportation Layer
The roads and transportation layer shows all public and private roads, highways, rail lines, and airports in the county. Streets are labeled with their names, and highway shields show route numbers like State Route 99 or Interstate 5. The layer also includes road centerlines, which are useful for measuring distances along a specific road.
You can use this layer to plan driving routes, check road names for an address, or see how a property connects to the larger road network. The layer updates as the county adds new roads or changes road names, so the data stays current with the real-world road system.
Aerial Imagery Layer
The aerial imagery layer shows high-resolution photos taken from aircraft and satellites, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the land. The photos show buildings, trees, fields, and other features in natural color, so you can see exactly what a property looks like from above. The imagery is updated periodically, often every one to three years, depending on the area.
This layer is helpful for checking the condition of a property, seeing the layout of a farm, or looking at the neighborhood around a house. The most recent imagery is from the county’s fly-over program, and older photos are kept in the system for historical reference.
Zoning Layer
The zoning layer shows the official zoning districts set by the city of Fresno and the county of Fresno for unincorporated areas. Each district has a code, such as R-1 for single-family residential or C-2 for general commercial, and a color that matches the official zoning map. You can click a zoning area to see the full list of allowed uses, setbacks, and building rules for that district.
The zoning layer is a key tool for developers, property owners, and anyone planning a building project. It shows what you can build on a piece of land, how tall the building can be, and how far it must be set back from the property line. The layer is kept up to date with the latest zoning changes approved by the city council or the county planning commission.
Land Use Layer
The land use layer shows the general plan land use categories for every parcel in the unincorporated county, such as agriculture, residential, industrial, or open space. The colors and codes follow the Fresno County General Plan, which guides long-term growth and conservation. The layer shows the planned use of land, even if the current use is different.
This layer is used by planners, farmers, and conservation groups to track how land is being used and how it is expected to change. The land use layer is separate from zoning, as zoning deals with current rules while land use deals with long-term plans. You can turn both layers on at the same time to compare them.
Flood Zone Layer
The flood zone layer shows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood hazard areas for Fresno County, including the 100-year and 500-year floodplains. The layer uses standardized colors and labels, with blue shading for high-risk areas and lighter colors for moderate-risk areas. You can click a flood zone to see the zone designation, such as Zone A or Zone X, and the flood risk level.
This layer is required reading for anyone buying property in a flood-prone area, as it affects insurance rates and building requirements. The data is updated when FEMA issues new flood maps, which can happen every few years as new studies are completed. The county also keeps local flood data that may be more current than the FEMA maps.
Administrative Boundaries
The administrative boundaries layer shows city limits, county supervisorial districts, school district boundaries, and other government jurisdictions. Each boundary is drawn as a colored line, and the name of the jurisdiction appears as a label when you zoom in, and interested parties can consult the property tax records to confirm full details. This layer helps you find out which city or district a property belongs to, which can affect taxes, voting, and services.
You can use this layer to check if a property is inside the city of Fresno, the city of Clovis, or one of the smaller communities like Reedley or Selma. The layer also shows the boundaries of special districts, such as water districts, fire districts, and irrigation districts, which may bill property owners separately for services.
Other Available GIS Layers
Other available GIS layers on the Fresno County map include schools, parks, hospitals, fire stations, polling places, and environmental data. You can turn these layers on as needed to see the location of public facilities or to check environmental features like wetlands, habitats, or soil types. Some layers are turned off by default to keep the map clean, but you can enable them at any time.
The GIS Division adds new layers as data becomes available, and a list of all current layers is posted on the county’s GIS website. If you need a specific dataset that is not listed, you can contact the GIS Division to ask about getting the data or adding it to the viewer.
GIS Map Navigation Tools
The Fresno County GIS Map navigation tools help you move around the map, find features, and control what you see. The tools are found in the top toolbar and include buttons for zooming, panning, identifying features, and changing the base map. Each tool has a clear icon, and you can hover over the icon to see a short description of what it does.
The navigation tools work the same way as other web maps, so if you have used Google Maps or similar sites, you already know the basics. You can also use keyboard shortcuts, such as holding the shift key to draw a box and zoom to a specific area.
Zoom and Pan
You can zoom and pan on the Fresno County GIS Map by using the mouse, the on-screen buttons, or the keyboard. Click and drag to pan, scroll the mouse wheel to zoom in and out, or click the plus and minus buttons in the corner for precise zoom steps. Holding the shift key while drawing a box on the map zooms to that exact area.
The map keeps the same scale across the entire view, so roads and parcels stay at a consistent size as you zoom. The current scale, such as 1:24,000, is shown in the corner so you know the level of detail you are seeing. Zooming in shows more parcel lines and street names, while zooming out gives you a wider view of the county.
Full-Extent Map View
You can return to the full-extent map view by clicking the home icon or the “Zoom to Full Extent” button in the toolbar. This resets the map to show all of Fresno County in a single view, which is helpful if you have zoomed in and lost track of where you are. The full-extent view also resets the rotation and tilt if you have changed them.
Some layers have their own “Zoom to Layer” button, which zooms to the full extent of that specific layer. For example, clicking “Zoom to Layer” on the city limits layer shows all the cities in the county at once. This is faster than panning back to the full county view manually.
Identify Feature Tool
You can use the identify feature tool to click any feature on the map and see its details in a popup window. The tool looks like an information icon (a lowercase “i”) in the toolbar. Once you click the tool, click any parcel, road, or other feature, and a window opens with the data fields for that feature.
The identify tool works with all visible layers, so if you have parcels, zoning, and flood zones turned on, the window will show details for each layer at the click point. This saves time compared to selecting one layer at a time. You can also hold the control key to identify multiple features at once and compare their data.
Layer Visibility Controls
You can control layer visibility through the layer list panel, where each layer has a checkbox to turn it on or off. The panel also shows a small symbol next to each layer, so you can see what the layer looks like before turning it on. You can drag layers up or down to change the order they appear on the map, with layers at the top drawing on top of layers below.
Some layers have transparency sliders, so you can fade a layer to see the base map or other layers underneath. For example, you can fade the aerial imagery to 50% to see parcel lines more clearly, or fade the zoning layer to see streets. The system remembers your layer settings during your session.
Base Map Selection
You can select a base map from a list of options, including street maps, satellite imagery, topographic maps, and a plain gray background. The base map sits at the bottom of the layer stack, so all other layers draw on top of it. You change the base map by clicking the base map button in the toolbar and picking the option you want.
The street base map shows roads, labels, and city names in a clean style that is easy to read. The satellite base map shows aerial photos, which is helpful for seeing the real-world appearance of a property. The topographic base map shows elevation lines and terrain features, which is useful for planning outdoor projects.
Map Legend Controls
You can open the map legend by clicking the legend button, which shows a key for all the symbols and colors used in the current view. The legend updates automatically as you turn layers on and off, so it only shows symbols for the layers you have selected. You can also resize the legend window or move it to a different part of the screen.
The legend includes a description of each layer, such as the source of the data and the date it was last updated. This helps you understand how old the data is and where it came from. If a layer does not have a symbol in the legend, the layer may be turned off or set to be transparent at the current zoom level.
Fresno County Geographic Features
The Fresno County geographic features shown on the map include natural and man-made landmarks that define the landscape. You can see rivers, lakes, mountains, parks, and major roads, as well as city centers and rural communities. The map uses these features as reference points, so you can describe a location by what is near it.
Geographic features are stored in their own layers, such as water features, public facilities, and landmarks. You can turn these layers on to see the names of mountains, rivers, and parks across the county. The data comes from the U.S. Geological Survey, the county’s own records, and other public sources.
County Boundaries
The county boundary layer shows the official border of Fresno County, separating it from neighboring counties like Madera, Merced, Tulare, Kings, and Mono. The boundary is drawn as a thick line, and the neighboring county names are labeled on the other side. You can click the boundary to see the legal description of the border.
The county boundary follows natural features like the Sierra Nevada crest in the east and surveyed lines in the valley. The total area of the county is about 6,000 square miles, making it one of the largest counties in California. The boundary layer is maintained by the county surveyor and matches the official records.
Municipal Boundaries
The municipal boundaries layer shows the city limits for all incorporated cities in the county, including Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Reedley, Selma, Kerman, Fowler, Parlier, Mendota, Coalinga, Huron, and Firebaugh. Each city is shown in a different color, and the city name appears as a label. You can click a city to see its population, area, and incorporation date.
The unincorporated areas of the county are shown in a separate color, so you can tell at a glance if a property is inside a city or in the unincorporated county. The boundaries are kept up to date as cities annex land or approve new developments. The layer is used for planning, voting, and service delivery.
Roads and Streets
The roads and streets layer shows the full road network, from small neighborhood streets to major highways like State Route 99, State Route 41, and Interstate 5. The layer includes road names, route numbers, and street classifications such as local, collector, arterial, and highway. You can click a road to see its length, speed limit, and maintenance responsibility.
The road network is updated as new streets are built and old ones are renamed or closed. The data comes from the county’s Department of Public Works and Planning, as well as city public works departments. The layer also shows bridges, culverts, and other road-related features.
Water Features
The water features layer shows rivers, creeks, lakes, reservoirs, canals, and irrigation ditches across the county. Major water features include the San Joaquin River, Kings River, Millerton Lake, and the Friant-Kern Canal. The layer uses blue lines and polygons to show water flow and water bodies, with labels for the larger features.
You can click a water feature to see its name, length, and source. The layer is useful for checking if a property is near a waterway, which can affect flood risk and building rules. The data is maintained by the county, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the local irrigation districts.
Public Facilities
The public facilities layer shows the locations of schools, parks, libraries, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, government buildings, and other public services. Each facility is shown as a point or polygon, with an icon that matches the type of facility. You can click a facility to see its name, address, and contact details.
This layer helps you find the closest school for a property, check the location of a fire station for response times, or find a park for a neighborhood. The data is kept current with help from each agency, so new facilities show up as they open. The layer is also used by emergency planners and first responders.
Geographic Landmarks
The geographic landmarks layer shows named natural and man-made features that are not part of the road or water network, such as mountain peaks, valleys, historic sites, and notable buildings. Examples include Mount Diablo, the Sierra Nevada foothills, and the historic Fresno Water Tower. Each landmark has a label and a point symbol on the map.
You can use this layer to find the name of a mountain, the location of a historic site, or the boundary of a valley. The data comes from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) and the county’s own historic records. The layer adds context to the map and helps you describe a location more clearly.
Fresno County GIS Measurement Tools
The Fresno County GIS Map measurement tools let you measure distances, areas, and coordinates directly on the map. These tools are useful for checking the size of a parcel, the distance between two points, or the exact coordinates of a location. The tools are found in the toolbar, and each one opens a small window that shows the measurement result as you draw on the map.
You can measure in feet, miles, meters, acres, hectares, or square miles, depending on the tool and your settings. The measurement tools use the same coordinate system as the map, so the results match official survey data. You can clear a measurement and start a new one at any time.
Measuring Distance
You can measure distance by clicking the measure tool, picking the distance option, and then clicking points on the map to draw a line. The tool shows the total length of the line at the bottom of the screen, and you can add as many segments as you want by clicking additional points. Double-click to finish the measurement.
You can also measure distance along a road by snapping to the road layer. This gives you the actual road distance between two points, rather than a straight line. The distance tool is helpful for checking how far a property is from a school, a road, or a city limit.
Measuring Area
You can measure area by clicking the measure tool, picking the area option, and then clicking points around the boundary of the area you want to measure. The tool shows the total area in acres, square feet, hectares, or square miles, depending on your settings. Double-click to close the shape and finish the measurement.
Area measurements are helpful for checking the size of a parcel, a field, or a building footprint. The tool uses the same calculations as official surveys, so the results are close to the recorded acreage in the Assessor’s records. You can save the measurement by taking a screenshot or printing the map.
Map Coordinates
You can view map coordinates by moving the mouse over the map and watching the coordinate display in the corner of the screen. The coordinates are shown in latitude and longitude, as well as the State Plane coordinate system used by California. You can copy the coordinates for use in GPS devices, surveys, or other GIS software.
The coordinate display updates as you move the mouse, so you always know the exact location of the pointer. You can also click a point on the map to drop a marker and see its coordinates in a popup window. The tool uses the WGS84 datum, which is the standard for most modern GPS systems.
Location Identification
You can identify a location by clicking the identify tool and then clicking a point on the map. The popup window shows the coordinates, the address (if available), the parcel number, the city, and the ZIP code. This is a quick way to get a complete description of any point on the map without having to search by address.
Location identification is helpful for describing a specific spot, such as the corner of a property or the site of a planned project. You can copy the information from the popup and paste it into a report, an email, or a permit application. The tool works with all active layers, so you get details for every dataset at that point.
Spatial Measurements
You can use spatial measurement tools to check the relationship between two features, such as the distance from a parcel to a flood zone or the overlap between two layers. The viewer includes a buffer tool that draws a circle of a set distance around a point, line, or area, which is useful for checking what is within a certain distance of a property.
Spatial measurements also include overlay analysis, which lets you see how two layers interact. For example, you can turn on the parcels and flood zones layers to see which parcels are inside a flood zone. The system highlights the overlapping areas in a bright color so you can see the result clearly.
Fresno County GIS Data
The Fresno County GIS Data is the raw information that powers the map viewer, stored in spatial databases and served as map layers. The data includes parcels, roads, zoning, addresses, boundaries, and many other datasets, each maintained by the county agency responsible for that type of information. You can view the data on the map or download it for use in your own GIS software.
The GIS Division manages the central database and works with other county departments, cities, and partner agencies to keep the data accurate and current. Data is stored in standard formats like shapefiles, file geodatabases, and GeoJSON, so it can be used in most GIS programs.
GIS Data Sources
You can find GIS data sources for Fresno County through the county’s open data portal, the GIS Division’s website, and direct requests to county staff. The data comes from many sources, including the Assessor’s office, the Department of Public Works, the Planning Department, the Agricultural Commissioner, the Registrar of Voters, and outside agencies like FEMA and the U.S. Census Bureau.
Each dataset has a metadata record that lists the source, the date it was created, the date it was last updated, and the contact person for questions. The metadata helps you understand the quality and limits of the data before you use it. The county also partners with local cities to share data, so city-level data is often available through the county portal.
Spatial Data Layers
The spatial data layers are organized by theme, such as parcels, transportation, environment, and administration. Each layer is stored as a separate file or database table, with a common coordinate system so the layers line up correctly on the map. The table below lists some of the main data layers and the agency that maintains them.
| Data Layer | Description | Maintaining Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Parcels | Property boundaries and APN | Assessor |
| Addresses | Address points and street ranges | Public Works |
| Roads | Street centerlines and highways | Public Works |
| Zoning | Zoning districts and codes | Planning |
| Flood Zones | FEMA flood hazard areas | Public Works |
| Voting Precincts | Election precinct boundaries | Registrar of Voters |
Geographic Attributes
Geographic attributes are the details stored with each feature in a layer, such as the owner name for a parcel, the speed limit for a road, or the population for a city. Attributes are stored in tables linked to the spatial features, so you can click a feature on the map and see its attributes in a popup. You can also view the full attribute table by opening the layer’s table view.
Attribute data is updated whenever the source agency changes a record, such as when a property is sold, a road is renamed, or a city annexes land. The GIS Division syncs the GIS database with the source systems regularly, so the map reflects the latest official records. The attribute tables can be sorted, filtered, and searched for specific values.
Data Formats
The Fresno County GIS data is available in several common formats, including shapefile (SHP), file geodatabase (GDB), GeoJSON, KML, and CSV with coordinates. Shapefile is the most common format for desktop GIS software like ArcGIS and QGIS, while GeoJSON and KML are common for web maps and Google Earth. CSV files work with spreadsheet programs and simple GIS tools.
Each format has its strengths. Shapefiles are widely supported and store both geometry and attributes. Geodatabases handle large datasets and complex relationships. GeoJSON is text-based and easy to read. KML is good for sharing with non-GIS users. The county provides data in the format that best fits each dataset.
GIS Data Downloads
You can download GIS data from the Fresno County open data portal or by contacting the GIS Division directly. Most layers are available for free, though some large datasets may require a request form. The downloads are organized by category, and each file comes with metadata and a license agreement that explains how the data can be used.
When you download data, the files often come in a ZIP archive that includes the data, the metadata, and a readme file. You should read the readme file first to learn about the coordinate system, the update schedule, and any limits on the data. The county also offers data through web services, so you can connect to the live data without downloading a file.
Fresno County GIS Map Updates
The Fresno County GIS Map updates happen on a regular schedule as new data comes in from county departments and outside agencies. The GIS Division processes the updates, checks the data for errors, and publishes the new versions to the online viewer. You can check the “Last Updated” date on each layer to see how current the data is.
Update frequency depends on the layer. Parcels and addresses may update weekly or monthly, while layers like flood zones or zoning may update only a few times a year. The county posts a calendar on the GIS website that shows when each major layer was last refreshed.
New GIS Data
New GIS data is added to the viewer as the county creates new datasets or receives data from partner agencies. Recent additions include new parks, updated school boundaries, and detailed aerial imagery for the city of Fresno. The GIS Division works with cities, schools, and special districts to bring in data that the public has asked for.
When new data is added, the layer appears in the layer list with a “New” tag so you know it is available. The metadata for the new layer includes the source, the date, and a contact person. You can suggest new datasets by emailing the GIS Division or filling out the request form on the county website.
Updated Map Layers
Updated map layers replace older versions of the data with new information. Common updates include new subdivisions, new roads, changed zoning, and updated flood zones. When a layer is updated, the old version is archived, and the new version goes live on the viewer. The change log on the GIS website lists every update by date and layer.
You can tell a layer has been updated by checking the “Last Updated” field in the layer properties or the legend. If you saved a map view with the old data, you may need to refresh the view to see the new data. The viewer does not always refresh automatically, especially if you have had the page open for a long time.
Boundary Changes
Boundary changes happen when cities annex land, when new supervisorial districts are drawn, or when the county border is adjusted. These changes are rare, but they can have a big impact on which rules apply to a property. The GIS Division works with the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) and the Registrar of Voters to update the boundaries as soon as they are approved.
When a boundary changes, the affected parcels are moved to the new jurisdiction, and the layer colors are updated. The change log notes the date of the change and the official record number. You can view the old boundary in the historical layers if you need to see what the map looked like before the change.
Address Updates
Address updates happen when new addresses are added, when existing addresses are corrected, or when addresses are changed due to renumbering or road renaming. The address points layer is the main source for 911 calls, mail delivery, and emergency response, so the county keeps it current. The GIS Division syncs with the Assessor’s office, the post office, and the cities to get the latest addresses.
If you find an address that is missing or wrong, you can report it to the GIS Division or the Public Works Department. The address will be verified and added to the database, usually within a few weeks. The address layer is also tied to the county’s NextGen 911 system, so accurate addresses help first responders find locations quickly.
Data Refresh Schedule
The data refresh schedule lists how often each layer is updated, so you know what to expect. High-priority layers like parcels, addresses, and roads update weekly or monthly. Layers like zoning and land use update quarterly or as changes are approved. Layers like flood zones and census boundaries update only when the source agency releases new data.
The schedule is posted on the GIS website and is updated whenever the county changes the refresh cycle for a layer. The schedule also notes planned maintenance windows, when the viewer may be down for updates. You can subscribe to email alerts to be notified about major updates and maintenance windows.
GIS Map Printing and Sharing
The Fresno County GIS Map has built-in tools for printing, saving, and sharing your map view. You can print a map directly from your browser, save a map view as a link, export the data, or share a specific location with others. These tools make it easy to use the map in reports, presentations, and meetings.
When you print or save, the viewer includes the legend, the scale bar, the north arrow, and the date, so the output is a complete map. You can adjust the page size, the orientation, and the output format to match your needs. Sharing a map view sends a link that opens the map at the same location with the same layers turned on.
Print a Map View
You can print a map view by clicking the print button in the toolbar, which opens a print preview window. The preview shows the current map extent with the legend, scale bar, and title. You can change the page size (letter, legal, or tabloid), the orientation (portrait or landscape), and the output format (PDF, PNG, or JPG).
Before printing, you can adjust the map title, add notes, and choose which layers to include. The print tool uses the browser’s print function, so you can also send the map to a printer directly. The printed map is a high-quality image that looks like a standard paper map, with all the labels and symbols in the right place.
Save a Map View
You can save a map view by clicking the save button, which creates a link that you can bookmark or share. The link includes the current map extent, the zoom level, the active layers, and any search results on the screen. When you open the link later, the map returns to the same view with the same settings.
This is helpful when you want to return to a specific map view without having to pan and zoom manually. You can save multiple views for different projects and share them with coworkers or clients. The save link works in any modern browser and does not require a login.
Export Available Map Data
You can export available map data in several formats, including CSV, KML, GeoJSON, and shapefile. The export tool lets you pick a layer, choose the features you want (such as all parcels in a city), and download the file. The exported file includes the geometry and the attributes for each feature.
Export is useful when you need to analyze the data in another program, such as Excel, Google Earth, or ArcGIS. You can also export the map image as a PNG or JPG file for use in reports or presentations. The export tool respects the layer’s data license, so some layers may be limited to non-commercial use.
Share a Map Location
You can share a map location by clicking the share button, which copies a link to the current map view. The link includes the latitude and longitude, the zoom level, and any active layers. You can paste the link into an email, a text message, or a social media post, and the recipient will see the same map view when they open the link.
You can also share a specific feature by clicking it on the map, opening its popup, and clicking the share button in the popup. This creates a link that centers the map on that feature and opens its popup. This is helpful for pointing someone to a specific parcel, road, or facility without having to describe the location in words.
GIS Map Accuracy and Limitations
The Fresno County GIS Map is a helpful tool, but the data has limits that you should know about before making decisions based on the map. The GIS Division works hard to keep the data accurate, but the map is not a substitute for an official survey, a title report, or a legal description. You should always confirm important details with the source agency before relying on the map for legal or financial decisions.
The map is updated regularly, but there is always a delay between when a change happens in the real world and when it shows up on the map. The disclaimer on the map and the county website explains these limits in more detail.
GIS Data Accuracy
GIS data accuracy depends on the source and the method used to collect the data. Parcel boundaries are accurate to within a few feet in most urban areas, but rural parcels may have less precise boundaries because they were surveyed decades ago. Aerial imagery is usually accurate to within a few feet, but the photos may be a few years old.
Address points are checked against the county’s address database and the post office records, but new addresses may take time to appear. Road centerlines are aligned with the road network, but they may not match the exact center of the road in every case. The metadata for each layer lists the accuracy and the collection method.
Map Display Limitations
Map display limitations happen because the map is shown on a flat screen, even though the earth is round. The projection used by the map distorts shapes, areas, distances, or directions to some degree, depending on the projection. The map uses the Web Mercator projection for display, which is good for general use but not for precise measurements over large areas.
You may also see small visual errors due to the resolution of your screen, the zoom level, or the way the layers are drawn. For example, two parcels may look like they overlap at a low zoom level but are actually separated by a small road. Zooming in usually clears up these visual issues.
Boundary Representation Limitations
Boundary representation limitations happen because the map shows boundaries as straight lines, but the real boundaries may follow curved features like rivers or surveyed lines with angles. The county boundary, for example, follows the Sierra Nevada crest in the east, but the map shows a smoothed line. The official legal description is the final word on where a boundary is.
City limit boundaries may also be shown as straight lines, even when the actual boundary follows a parcel line or a road. The map shows the general location, but you should check the official annexation maps for the exact location of a city limit. The GIS Division provides links to the official records in the layer metadata.
Data Update Delays
Data update delays happen because the GIS Division needs time to receive, process, and publish new data. A new subdivision, for example, may be recorded with the county in January but not show up on the map until March. The delay depends on the layer, the source agency, and the work backlog at the GIS Division.
You can check the “Last Updated” date on each layer to see how current the data is. If you need the most current data, contact the source agency directly, such as the Assessor’s office for parcel data or the Planning Department for zoning data. The GIS website lists the contact information for each agency.
GIS Map Disclaimer
The GIS map disclaimer states that the map is for informational purposes only and is not a legal document. The county makes no warranty about the accuracy, completeness, or fitness of the data for any specific use. You are responsible for verifying the data with the source agency before relying on it for legal, financial, or safety decisions.
The disclaimer also notes that the map may contain errors or omissions, and the county is not liable for any damages that result from using the map. The full disclaimer is posted on the GIS website and in the map viewer’s help menu. By using the map, you agree to the terms of the disclaimer.
Fresno County GIS Map Problems
Common Fresno County GIS Map problems include the map not loading, locations not being found, layers not displaying, incorrect features, outdated data, and measurement tool errors. Most of these problems can be fixed by refreshing the page, clearing your browser cache, or checking your internet connection. Some problems require a call to the GIS Division for help.
Below is a list of the most common problems and the steps you can take to fix them. If you cannot solve the problem on your own, the contact information at the end of this page will help you reach the GIS Division for support.
Map Not Loading
If the map is not loading, first check your internet connection and try refreshing the page. If the map still does not load, clear your browser cache and cookies, or try a different browser. The GIS viewer works best with the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
If the problem continues, the GIS Division may be doing maintenance or fixing a server issue. You can check the county’s social media or the GIS website for outage notices. Most outages are short and are fixed within a few hours.
Location Not Found
If a location is not found, check the spelling of the address or place name. The search tool uses exact matches, so small typos can cause the search to fail. Try searching with fewer words, such as just the street name, or use the parcel number if you have it.
If the location is brand new, it may not be in the database yet. New subdivisions and new addresses take time to be added to the GIS. You can contact the Public Works Department or the Assessor’s office to check on the status of a new address.
Layer Not Displaying
If a layer is not displaying, check the layer list to make sure the layer is turned on. Some layers are turned off by default to keep the map clean, so you may need to enable the layer manually. You can also try zooming in or out, as some layers only show up at certain zoom levels.
If the layer is turned on but still not showing, the data may be unavailable for the area you are viewing. For example, some layers only cover the unincorporated county, not the cities. The layer metadata lists the geographic coverage of each layer.
Incorrect Map Feature
If a map feature is incorrect, such as a parcel boundary in the wrong place or a road name that is misspelled, the data may be out of date or have a known error. You can report the error to the GIS Division using the contact information at the end of this page. Please include the location, the layer name, and a description of the error.
The GIS Division checks error reports and updates the data as soon as possible. Some errors, like a misspelled road name, can be fixed quickly, while others, like a parcel boundary dispute, may take longer because they require research and coordination with the source agency.
Outdated GIS Layer
If a GIS layer is outdated, the “Last Updated” date in the layer properties will show an old date. The GIS Division updates layers on a regular schedule, but there is always a delay between the real world and the map. You can check the change log to see when the next update is planned for that layer.
If you need the most current data, contact the source agency directly. For example, the Assessor’s office has the latest parcel data, and the Planning Department has the latest zoning data. The GIS Division can also pull a special report if you need data that is not yet on the public viewer.
Measurement Tool Problems
Measurement tool problems usually happen when the map is not at the right zoom level or when the tool is not set to the right units. Make sure you have selected the correct measurement option (distance or area) and the correct units (feet, miles, meters, acres). Zooming in can also help the tool snap to features more accurately.
If the measurement tool gives a result that seems wrong, try clearing the measurement and starting over. You can also try a different tool, such as the identify tool, to check the coordinates of the points you are measuring. If the problem continues, report it to the GIS Division with the details of what you were trying to measure.
Contact Information
For questions about the Fresno County GIS Map, GIS data downloads, layer updates, or technical problems, you can contact the Fresno County Information Technology Services Department, GIS Division, using the details below. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and staff can help with account issues, data requests, and map errors.
- Department: Fresno County Information Technology Services Department (GIS Division)
- Address: 2220 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721
- Phone: (559) 600-5956
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
This list answers the most common questions about using the Fresno County Gis Map, from basic searches to data download and advanced features.
How do I search the Fresno County Gis Map?
Open the county’s online GIS viewer in any web browser. Enter an address, parcel number, or place name in the search box. The system matches the entry and places a marker on the map. Use the zoom controls to get a closer view of property lines, street names, and nearby public facilities. No additional software is required, and the map updates instantly as you type.
What layers are shown in the interactive GIS map?
The interactive GIS map includes layers for parcels, streets, zoning, flood zones, schools, and public utilities. Users can toggle each layer on or off using the layer panel on the right side of the viewer. Adding or removing layers updates the map in real time, helping you focus on the information most relevant to your task.
Can I download GIS map data for my project?
Yes. After locating the area of interest, click the download icon in the toolbar. Choose the format you need, such as shapefile or CSV, and select which layers to include. The download starts automatically and contains the spatial data and attribute tables for the selected layers. Data is free for public use.
How to create a heatmap in the GIS map viewer?
First, open the GIS map viewer and load the layer that contains point data, such as incident reports. Click the analysis menu and select Heatmap. Adjust the radius and color gradient to highlight dense areas. The map redraws to display colored zones that represent concentration levels, allowing quick visual analysis of patterns.
Who to contact for GIS map help in Fresno County?
Reach the Fresno County GIS Division at (559) 600-5956 during office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can also visit the GIS office at 2220 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721. For online assistance, use the contact form on the official GIS portal linked from the county website.
