Free Google Earth radius KML tool

KML Circle Generator

Enter a center latitude, longitude, and radius. This browser tool instantly builds a Google Earth friendly KML circle with preview, coordinates, styling, copy, and download.

Polygon, LineString, or both Meters, km, feet, miles Optional center placemark No map API key
Local browser tool 5 mi radius 96 points Polygon

Working generator: live KML is created below

Every change updates the preview and the KML source. The generated file stays in your browser and can be imported into Google Earth, Google My Maps where supported, QGIS, and many GIS viewers.

PrivacyNo upload, no geocoding API
KML orderlongitude,latitude,altitude
Ring closureFirst point repeated
1

Circle center

Use decimal degrees. South and west values are negative.

Tip: copy coordinates from Google Earth, Google Maps, QGIS, or a GPS export, then paste latitude and longitude here.

2

Radius and shape

More points create a smoother circle and a larger file.

3

Style

KML colors use ABGR order. The generator converts normal hex colors for you.

What the file contains

The generator creates a KML Document with style rules, a Placemark, and either a filled Polygon, an outline LineString, or both. Polygon rings are closed by repeating the first coordinate.

Common workflows

Use it for service areas, local SEO radius maps, site planning, rough buffers, training areas, neighborhood overlays, and quick Google Earth visualization.

Private by design

No address lookup or upload is required. The coordinates and generated KML stay in your browser unless you choose to copy or download the file.

Benchmark lessons applied

Older KML circle tools are useful but often hide the output, skip mobile polish, or make users guess which geometry they are downloading. This version keeps the working generator, preview, KML source, and export controls in one visible workflow.

Google Earth readyUse KML `longitude,latitude,altitude` order, escaped XML, repeat the first point, and include a stable style block.
Output choiceSupport filled polygons, outline LineStrings, and a combined option so GIS users do not need to hand-edit the file.
No hidden API dependencySkip geocoding in this first version so the page is fast, private, and usable without keys or network calls.
Professional defaultsInclude sample data, line/fill colors, point count, opacity, center marker, file naming, and instant copy/download.
KML4Earth circle generator Scott Murray KML circle MapScaping KML circle Google KML docs

How the circle is calculated

  1. The radius is converted to meters.
  2. Each bearing around 360 degrees is sampled by the point count.
  3. A destination point formula estimates latitude and longitude for each bearing.
  4. The coordinates are written as longitude,latitude,0 because KML uses longitude first.
  5. The final KML is escaped XML with style, placemark, geometry, and coordinate tags.

Import tips

  • Google Earth Pro usually opens downloaded `.kml` files directly.
  • QGIS can add KML as a vector layer for visual checks.
  • Some web map tools ignore custom KML colors or opacity, so verify styling after import.

Better circles

  • Use 64 to 128 points for most service area maps.
  • Use fewer points for tiny lightweight files.
  • Use more points only when the circle edge looks visibly segmented.

Accuracy note

The math uses a spherical earth approximation. It is useful for planning and visualization, not legal boundaries, surveying, aviation, maritime safety, or land ownership decisions.

Can I use this KML circle in Google Earth?

Yes. Download the `.kml` file and open it in Google Earth or another KML-compatible GIS tool. Some tools may style polygons differently.

Why does KML list longitude before latitude?

KML coordinate tuples are written as longitude,latitude,altitude. This is different from the common latitude, longitude order used in many forms.

Can I generate a circle from an address?

This first version uses latitude and longitude only. Address geocoding would require a third-party API and could send location data outside your browser.

Should I choose Polygon or LineString?

Choose Polygon when you want a filled radius area. Choose LineString when you only need an outline. Choose Polygon + outline when importing into tools that handle line and fill styles separately.

How many points should I use?

Most maps look good with 64 to 128 points. A higher point count makes the edge smoother but increases the file size.

Is this a precise surveying tool?

No. It is for map visualization and planning. Do not use it as a legal boundary, property line, safety radius, or regulatory compliance source.