Skip to Main Content
Skip to Navigation
Accessibility Statement

BC Address Geocoder

DataBC

, , ,

If you need to identify precise physical locations in British Columbia, the BC Address Geocoder is a powerful tool. It provides reliable, unambiguous locations in a standardized address format. If you know a physical location, it can provide a civic address or a variety of non-civic addresses.

The BC Address Geocoder tells you not only a street address, but also the precise latitude and longitude of physical locations and place names in B.C. You can also use it to correct and standardize civic and non-civic addresses, locate intersections, identify land parcels associated with specific addresses, or even find all addresses in a given area.

The system draws from several authoritative sources including local governments across B.C. and the BC Assessment Authority. This range of resources ensures that you can identify locations such as highway addresses, buildings on First Nations Reserves, electoral areas and areas that are not on a road network.

The BC Address Geocoder can be used for real-time validation and in batch mode, helping people manage large lists with millions of addresses.

Why should I use this

Ease of use

Government and non-government agencies have used BC Address Geocoder extensively in many different applications for several years. It can easily be integrated into other applications. You can phone or email a service desk for help. The system is managed centrally to ensure an efficient, reliable process.

Extensive history and updating

The BC Address Geocoder has handled over 1.3 billion physical addresses since it was first released in 2013. It has been continuously updated to extend its reach and accuracy.

Rich, reliable databases

The BC Address Geocoder has the most complete list of physical BC addresses available. Data is sourced directly from local governments and provincial government agencies. It offers the most complete list of physical BC addresses available.

About this component

Price

Free

Service level support

If you need help, please call the Service Desk’s Toll Free service at 1-866-952-6801 or email the Service Desk. Representatives are available Monday through Friday (except Holidays) from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (PST).

Additional technical information

REST API

  • The REST API can be easily integrated into applications.
  • The anonymous API is useful for trying out the Geocoder. A rate limit of 1000 requests per minute applies.
  • Uses requiring higher quality of service, or support, should use the gated API along with an API key. Software developers can create their own keys. DataBC staff create permanent keys for production applications, on request.

Batch Geocoding

  • Use the Address List Editor to geocode fewer than one thousand addresses.
  • Use the Batch Geocoder to geocode large address lists (tens of thousands to millions). This tool is restricted to BC Government users and others explicitly granted permission.

Requirements and restrictions

The REST API is available for public use with a rate limit of 1000 requests per minute.

Higher volume use requires an API key.

A batch geocoder is available for BC Government users.

Getting started

The BC Address Geocoder is offered as an industry-standard web service (REST). It can be used in trial mode to process up to 1000 requests per minute. Higher processing rates and support are available to customers with an Application Programming Interface (API) key.

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/data/geographic-data-services/location-services/geocoder

Support

Please email the Service Desk. A representative is available Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (PST).