Adding Features - Offset (Add Menu)

📌 What is the Offset Function

The Offset function allows you to draw a line parallel to an existing map object. This can be applied to:

• Polylines – linear features such as roads or paths

• Polygons – area features such as boundaries

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⚙️ How the Offset Works

• Positive offset:

  • Polyline: draws the new line to the right of the line’s direction

  • Polygon: draws the new line outside the polygon shape

• Negative offset:

  • Polyline: draws the new line to the left of the line’s direction

  • Polygon: draws the new line inside the polygon

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📝 Step-by-Step Example

1. Choose Add → Offset, ensuring the required overlay is set as the Foreground Overlay.

2. Right-click on the object you want to offset → select Snap.

3. Right-click again → select Finish.

4. A dialog box appears asking for the offset value. Enter your desired distance and press OK.

5. The new offset line is inserted into the current geometry (unsaved).

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✅ Summary

This method allows you to create parallel lines precisely aligned with existing features, useful for:

• Planning layouts

• Design features

• Creating safe or buffer zones