Shapefile to KML Converter

About This Tool

This tool provides a strict SHP to KML conversion workflow designed for GIS analysts, city planners, environmental scientists, and developers. It accepts a Shapefile set (SHP, SHX, DBF) as input and outputs a standards-compliant KML file suitable for Google Earth, Maps, and other KML-enabled viewers. The primary goal is reliable data exchange and visualization, preserving geometry and attribute data.

Core concepts: reading the input vector data, validating geometry, reprojecting to WGS84 (EPSG:4326) unless a target CRS is provided, and translating attributes into KML ExtendedData. The pipeline uses established GIS libraries to handle shapefile quirks (multipart geometries, null geometries) and to maintain topology. The tool can operate in batch mode to convert multiple SHP sets in a directory.

Output and usage: The result is a KML file per input set with features and attributes accessible in standard GIS viewers. If a PRJ is missing or CRS is unknown, the tool defaults to WGS84 with a caution note. Optional settings include attribute filtering, geometry simplification for large datasets, and verbose logging for troubleshooting.

Benefits and differentiators: it prioritizes geometry and attribute fidelity, supports common shapefile quirks, and provides deterministic, script-friendly output that integrates with data pipelines and web maps. Typical users include municipal planning offices, environmental agencies, and geospatial developers needing rapid data sharing.

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