Export map data to a KML file - "Menu > Save KML"

Notes:
To export to a KML file, you must be logged-in to a Pro account. To learn how to upgrade, visit this link: How to upgrade to a Pro account

 

If you're exporting a KML file including attribute data, visit this link instead: Export a list of map/attribute data to a KML file

Description and example of a KML file

KML stands for Keyhole Markup Language, a file format for displaying geographic data in online maps (2D) and Earth browsers (3D).

A KML file contains annotated geographic data in XML format. 

Note: The colors of lines and shapes (polygons, etc.) are saved in a KML file.

An example use for a KML file is: you can transfer data for a hiking trail from Scribble Maps into Google Earth Pro. 

Types of overlays

• Can be exported.
• Can't be exported.
• Can be partially exported.

You can export the KML data for these overlay types:

• Shapes - Rectangle, Circle, Polygon.
• Lines - Freeform line, Straight line, Precise curved line.
• Markers.
• Labels.
• Images - (via URLs).

We recommend you delete all of the unusable overlay types:

• Flight lines.
• Isometric shapes.

For Dimension lines, the dimension components won't be exported to KML.

Only the straight line component will be exported.

Export the KML file

1. In the top toolbar, click the "MENU" button.
    
2. Under the "Export" heading, click: "Save KML".
    
3. (Optional) If the map has unsaved changes, you will see a pop-up displaying this message: "You have unsaved changes that will not be in the KML". Click:
   • "Save Now" to save the changes.
     (Optional) To learn how to save maps, visit this link:
     Save a map
      
     Then perform the previous steps #1 and 2 again.
     OR
   • "Continue" to not save the changes.
     The prompt window will close.
    
4. You will see the downloaded file in your browser. The file's default location will usually be your computer’s "Downloads" folder. The file’s:
   • Type will be: "KML".
   • Name will end with: ".kml".
    
5. (Optional) You can quickly view the XML data if you open the file by using text editor software. For example:
   • Notepad on Windows systems.
   • TextEdit on Mac systems.

See also

Export map data to a GPX file - "Menu > Save GPX"

Export map data to a shapefile - "Menu > Save SHP"

Export map data to a DXF file - "Menu > Save DXF"

Export a list of map/attribute data to a CSV file - (MS Excel/Google Sheets/etc.)

Export map data to a GeoJSON file - "Menu > Save GeoJSON"

Export map data to Google My Maps