How to split a polygon
- Open or draw the polygon. Select the feature you intend to divide.
- Choose the split operation. Start the split tool and draw a line that crosses the polygon boundary.
- Preview the parts. Confirm the cut produces the number and shape of pieces you expect.
- Apply the operation. Run the split only after checking the preview.
- Rename and validate. Give the resulting features useful names, inspect their properties and validate before export.
What makes a valid cutting line?
For a simple two-part split, the line should enter through one side of the polygon and exit through another. A line that stops inside the polygon, only touches a vertex or follows the boundary may not produce a clean split.
Zoom in before drawing. Small gaps between the cutting line and polygon boundary are a common reason a split appears to do nothing.
Splitting polygons with holes or multiple parts
Complex geometry needs extra review. A cut can interact with an internal hole or only affect one part of a MultiPolygon. Inspect every output part and ensure holes remain associated with the correct outer ring.
Common applications
- Dividing a site into work zones.
- Separating an operational area along a road or reference line.
- Creating smaller delivery, survey or inspection sectors.
- Breaking a large drawn boundary into independently managed features.
Ready to work on your file?
Open the editor, import your geometry and use the relevant operation from the toolbar or More menu.
Open the editor