ArcPy

Introduction#

ArcPy is a Python module that provides access to Esri’s geographic data analysis, data conversion, and data management software.

While Esri software primarily uses C++ for its proprietary geoprocessing and mapping tools, the ArcPy library enables those tools to be executed as part of a Python script.

Organized in tools, functions, classes, and modules, ArcPy allows automation of Esri software products to build complex workflow

Remarks#

Unlike many Python modules, ArcPy is not freeware and requires a licensed version of ArcGIS Desktop or ArcGIS Pro to function properly.

Importing ArcPy modules

ArcPy is composed of a number of modules:

• arcpy — the basic functions and geoprocessing tools
• arcpy.mapping — access to mapping and map document tools
• arcpy.da — a data access module for working with feature classes and tables
• arcpy.sa — the Spatial Analyst extension module
• arcpy.na — the Network Analyst extension module

Note: Some of these modules require additional licensing from Esri.

These can be imported all at once (import arcpy) or individually (import arcpy.sa as sa)