Add a reference layer

The reference layer feature lets a secondary spatial dataset be uploaded to the visual and overlaid on the map to provide addition context. Power BI hosts this dataset as a GeoJSON file with a .json or .geojson file extension.

To add a GeoJSON file as a reference layer, go to the Format pane, expand the Reference layer section, and press the + Add local file button.

After a GeoJSON file is added to the reference layer, the name of the file will appear in place of the + Add local file button with an X beside it. Press the X button to remove the data from the visual and delete the GeoJSON file from Power BI.

The following map displays 2016 census tracts for Colorado, colored by population.

The following are all settings in the Format pane that are available in the Reference layer section.

Setting	Description
Reference layer data	The data GeoJSON file to upload to the visual as another layer within the map. The + Add local file button opens a file dialog the user can use to select a GeoJSON file that has a .json or .geojson file extension.

Styling data in a reference layer

Properties can be added to each feature within the GeoJSON file to customize how it's styled on the map. This feature uses the simple data layer feature in the Azure Maps Web SDK. For more information, see this document on supported style properties. Custom icon images aren't supported within the Azure Maps Power BI visual as a security precaution.

The following json is an example of a GeoJSON point feature that sets its displayed color to red.

{
    "type": "Feature",
    "geometry": {
        "type": "Point",
        "coordinates": [-122.13284, 47.63699]
    },
    "properties": {
        "color": "red"
    }
}

Next steps

Add more context to the map:

Add a tile layer

Show real-time traffic