Help/FAQ
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User's Guide
Help/FAQ
Welcome to FAQ!
If you are a new or inexperienced user, we acknowledge it will take you time to understand the rules and to use Wikimapia's features properly. You may have many questions which need answering or you might need a pointer just to help you get back on track.
We therefore present the FAQ so that it can address your queries as well as covering the essential basics required to make your experience in Wikimapia a well-informed, compliant and pleasant one.
Basic Philosophy
What is Wikimapia for?
Wikimapia aimed to mark all geographical objects in the world and provide a useful description for them, so that anyone can share his knowledge and freely explore the world.
Who is Wikimapia for?
Anyone who is interested in exploring the world or like to share his or her knowledge with everyone who uses Wikimapia.
What is the basic ideology of Wikimapia?
To make yourself aware of Wikimapia basic ideology we recommend you to click here.
What are the guidelines for using content from Wikimapia?
According to Wikimapia License you may use Wikimapia content as you like (for sharing, recasting, transforming or adapting in any form recognizably derived from the original for any use). We also encourage you to build your work upon Wikimapia data and require its further distribution under the same or similar license to this one.
Is it WikiMapia or Wikimapia?
This website is usually more referred to as Wikimapia.
How can I help?
There many ways to contribute to Wikimapia. Adding/editing places is already a great help. You can also help translating the interface into your language, report about bugs in reports list or become an advanced user (moderator) to help other users.
Am I allowed freedom of expression if it is contrary to Wikimapia's philosophy?
Wikimapia, being a Wiki, allows freedom of expression through its flexible philosophy. You are within your rights to harbour personal beliefs which are contrary to the philosophy; however, you should be aware actions which contravene the philosophy are not acceptable. By using Wikimapia's services you explicitly agree to abide by its policies, of which the philosophy is a binding principle. Wilful or persistent violations of Wikimapia's policies may result in account restriction or termination.
Help
How can I become a member?
To become a member simply select 'Login/Register' from the Wikimapia menu and follow the instructions. You will need to choose a unique username, provide a valid email address and submit a password.
Once you have chosen a password, make sure you keep it safe and secret.
How can I get help using Wikimapia?
First of all you should read Wikimapia Docs and Guidelines carefully. If you still can’t get the answer to your question send a message to an Advanced User or you can also ask for help on the forum.
Who is an admin?
Admins are the members of the Wikimapia team.
How can I get help from admin?
First, make sure that a moderator or an advanced user (AU) can not help you. Then send admins a message or email on contact@wikimapia.org
Wikipedia content
What are the guidelines for using content from Wikipedia?
Articles quality on Wikipedia fit Wikimapia demands. So you can certainly use Wikipedia while describing a place or give a link to Wikipedia article.
Cutting and pasting an entire Wikipedia article into a Wikimapia description box is a great idea, right?
Giving a link to the article is more than enough, there is no need to repeat things twice.
Languages (Object Language Pages)
How can I add a missing language to a tag?
Adding languages is easy. Simply select 'Menu' > 'Add another language' in a place window, or you can select 'edit info in other language >>' in a place edit window. Choose your desired language from the list and proceed to add information as usual in the chosen language.
I found a place described in a language I do not know, but I want to know what was written. What can I do?
You can try and translate it with Google Translate or any available dictionary.
Can I add information in my local language in a different language page?
No. you cannot add languages in a different language page. This restriction applies to wordings added after the proper title. You can only add your language to the corresponding language page by accessing the object's 'Menu' and selecting 'Add another language' in the drop down menu. You may then choose your language from the choices available. You can also access your language page by clicking the two-letter country code (in blue) at the bottom of a tag.
Someone has added a place in my country and written it in a foreign language. Can I delete it?
Accurate descriptions in foreign languages are perfectly acceptable as long as they are made in the correct language page. The wilful deletion of tags containing foreign languages is forbidden.
Do I have to add the local language in a tag even though I have added the information in another language?
No you do not have to add the local language; the information you add in any language must be correct. However, if you are comfortable with the local language, it is recommended (not compulsory) you provide the information in that language too!
Someone added a tag in a foreign language in my country but did not add the local language. Is this wrong?
No, the inclusion of foreign languages and omission of the local language is not wrong as long as the information is correct and submitted in the correct language page. We recommend users include the local language if they are confident, but they are not obliged to do so.
Can I add the same Wikipedia link to multiple language pages of an object?
No. You should add the link to the respective language page of the object. Even then it should be confined to the Wikipedia link section in the object's edit window. However, you may include links to secondary Wikipedia articles in the description section.
When a place is written in several languages, but not mine, how do you determine which one to show me?
There is a list of most popular languages. If there are several descriptions of one place on different languages the system automatically determines the most popular language among those which are available for that specific place.
Someone wrote a good description in a place but it's in the wrong language page. What should I do with this?
You should move the description to the correct language page. You can also translate the good description into your language, if you can.
Can I remove a place's description in a particular language without deleting the entire place?
Yes.
What languages should I translate my place tag into?
Into whatever you speak from the language list that opens when hover over two-letter country code at the top menu and clicking 'more languages'.
The place I'm describing has different names in different languages. Which name should I use in my language?
The proper one for you language. You should find the official name of the place in your language by way of a reputable, fact-based or official source and use it. If a place has an alternative/unofficial name that is commonly used by locals, you can note it in description or in parenthesis/brackets '()' after the official name. If a place does not have an official name at all, you can use its informal name as the main title in your language.
I can see a number of different strange language codes at the bottom right of the object window, but how can I tell what they are?
Those codes are ISO abbreviations for languages. If you hover a cursor over them and wait a bit you’ll see the whole language name.
I have added a description in a new language for an existing place object, why hasn't it appeared in my list of created places?
Only the initial object creation is counted as a created object statistic. Subsequent contributions will be logged as edit statistics.
Languages (Interface)
I don't understand English. What can I do?
Wikimapia is a multi-lingual website and supports 101 languages. Though the major discussions are held in English (i.e., on forum), you still can choose your interface language from the list and enjoy Wikimapia.
How can I see Wikimapia (or mark places) in my own language?
You need to change the interface language to your language by hovering over two-letter country code at the top menu then clicking 'more languages' and selecting your language.
Why are some titles and tooltips in a different language?
This means that there is no translation of these titles or tooltips in your language yet. You can translate them into your language if you like.
How do I change the interface language?
To change the interface language to your language, hover over two-letter country code at the top menu, click 'more languages' and select your language.
How is the default language for my created places determined?
When open a place tag the system will offer you to see the description on your interface language. If there is no description on your interface language then you'll see the tag on English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Polish, Finnish, Norwegian, Russian. If there is no description on any of these languages, then you'll see the description on available language.
I'm using a non-English language interface in Wikimapia, but some words and phrases are in English. What can be done?
You can translate them.
Can I find out how many users use a certain language interface?
There is no stats on such a case.
When I look at the available languages, my language isn't there. What can be done about this?
In this case you should contact Wikimapia Team. They will either add your language to the language list, or explain to you why it can't be done.
How do I change the language on the map layer?
You can change the language of your interface at the top menu and the map layer language will change automatically.
Translations
How can I help translate the user interface into my language?
You can go to translation page and become an editor. Please note, only users with user level 3 and higher (3+) can make translation edits.
How can I find out the translation status of a certain language?
You can find it on translation page.
I'm using a non-English language interface in Wikimapia, but some words and phrases are in English. What can be done?
You can translate them to the language of your interface.
Satellite Images
Why is the picture of my town/village so bad?
Because the satellite imagery provided by Google in this area, is bad. We have no impact on it, unfortunately.
Why can't I zoom in more in a certain area?
Because the satellite imagery provider has no higher resolution pictures of this area.
Can you update the map in my location because it is too blurry/low resolution quality?
No, unfortunately we cannot, as satellite images are provided by Google. This means that we have no idea when Google will update the images. you can monitor the updated images on Google sites, however their help page says that this happens once in "approximately one to three years".
How can I report an error with Google satellite imagery?
Click on the 'Report a map error' button in the bottom right of the map, this takes you to Google's error report pages.
How can we find out where Google has recently changed their images?
You can try the blog do Google Earth (English), where there is a link to the updates of recent images.
When will the satellite images of my area get more detail?
See previous
When will the satellite images of my area be brought up to date?
See previous
Can I find out which place tags were most recently added?
You can use Countries watchlist that you may find in 'tools' for these purpose.
Why have all the place tags in my area shifted 10 meters to the west?
Sometimes when Google updates its files, they can not line them up precisely with the old pictures. Take satellite photos of a spherical Earth and match these images on a flat map is not as easy as we would like. So sometimes, there are offsets. On such a case there is 'Satellite images updates list' tool (or Map Shift). It allows to fix those shifts of the map.
What should I do when all the place tags in a certain area have been shifted 10 metres to the west?
See previous.
I found a place where when I zoomed OUT it said "no imagery"?
this means that the provider has no higher resolution imagery there.
Place tools
Adding places
What is a "place object"?
In WikiMapia, a local object is the word commonly used to refer to a location marked, ie, the rectangle with the title, description, etc.. In English, the word used is "tagged" as short for "place tag." In English, "tag" can also mean the field for the keywords.
I've heard different names used for a place object e.g. "tag", "place mark, "place" etc. What name should I use?
It's better to name it just Place or Object.
How do I add a place?
Select 'add a place' and a red polygon tool will appear. Draw a polygon, then add other information :
- choose Language carefully.
- Title is the name Wikimapia shows that when we hover over the place. Write something short, but representative.
- Description. For the description, as they say, 2 or 3 lines is already good.
- Links are good, but remember to start with "http://". Links must come to the end of the description, because they are considered secondary sources of information.
- Categories
And click the 'Save'.
- Photo
Can I add my own house?
You are allowed to mark a house as long as it has:
- an accurate outline
- a properly assigned category
- a recognizable address. This should be demonstrated by assigning a street name (via the Roads tool) and a building number in the Address section.
It is undesirable to add a personal house if:
- it does not possess interesting details
- you do not recognise the potential repercussions of disclosing personal details
A ship which is anchored or stationed in a fixed location (prepositioning) has drifted slightly from its original position. Can I still mark it?
Yes you can provided the ship maintains a fixed position near to the original location. For existing objects, if the map updates to indicate an anchored/prepositioned ship has drifted, you should update the change by redrawing the object's outline.
Can I mark transmission towers/electricity pylons?
Yes you can, transmission towers/electricity pylons are valid objects and can be marked. Please give them an accurate outline and the appropriate category.
Which map provider should I use to mark objects?
You can use any map source provided they are not incorrect nor illegal.
Since its inception in 2006, Wikimapia has always used Google Maps to plot its data layer as it was the only source available for five years. Presently, Wikimapia regards Google Maps imagery the best source in most cases.
Google Maps' satellite view is the default and the most widely used map view to mark objects in Wikimapia. We highly recommended that you use Google Satellite 'old places' view ('Satellite + old places' in Beta and 'Google satellite' with 'old places' checked in New Wikimapia) to ensure you don't duplicate the addition of an already marked object.
Finally, reality governs over all map sources. For example, if a building is demolished in real life, it should be marked as such even though the map may show it to still exist as a building.
Which places should I tag?
- Any non-movable place that exists at this particular moment in time.
- Planes, submarines, circuses and other movable objects may be added if they are still for at least a week.
- Permanently still or stationed ships which are moored or anchored can be marked even if they have drifted from an original position.
- A place must have at the very least a properly constructed outline.
- Settlement place tags such as cities, towns, villages and neighborhoods must have a properly assigned category.
- Historical/disappeared places. These must have the 'historical layer / disappeared object' category assigned to them.
- Newly constructed buildings, which are not visible on the satellite image. Use a different map provider with the latest images to verify the outline. If the newly constructed place is not visible on any map, try your best to mark the outline accurately.
Remember, reality governs over satellite images and map sources. If you can see and visit a place not visible on a map, you can still mark it.
Which places should I not tag?
Please think carefully before adding a place tag, there are certain things that are forbidden. Place tags that meet the following deletion criteria should not be added:
- An outline that does not mark any identifiable place.
- A historical/disappeared place without the 'historical layer / disappeared object' category.
- A planned building or road that has not entered the construction phase.
- Movable objects that are still for less than a week.
- A place tag that marks temporary or intangible events such as battles etc.
- A place tag that is a copy of another place tag.
- A personal/private residence that does not contain an address or useful information.
What information should I provide in a place tag?
You should provide any information that you find useful and valuable, if only it does not violate Wikimapia guidelines.
What information should I not provide in a place tag?
You should not provide any information that violates Wikimapia guidelines.
How big should my place tag be?
For the description 2 or 3 lines is already good. If you wrote a short title, then you can provide some more information here. If you are just adding the local Starbucks, then you could consider leaving the description blank ("everyone" knows what is a Starbucks, especially if you add the correct category in the box below the description), but put yourself in place of someone else in the world. and provide them with some information. Do not copy and paste a large section of text from other web pages, but instead, just provide the link. If you're describing an airport, for example, you must not copy and paste the entire Wikipedia article, including all airlines and all the cities that have flights there. Nobody will read it, but it certainly will make things difficult for people to look for Nairobi and find it mentioned in the description of the Amsterdam Airport.
Can I add roads, railroads, rivers or even ferry routes with the place tool?
No you should not, you should use the linear tools to draw on the map. This is found under the Edit map drop down menu list, which is found at the top-left of the screen.
I found something on the satellite image that I want to know what it is. Should I mark the place, and call it "What is this"?
No you should not, if you do not know the place then you should not mark it.
Should I tag a place that does not show up in the satellite image because it has just been built?
Yes! Once the image is updated, the site will be there.
Should we mark places that may be dangerous to visit?
You can mark dangerous place as any other. You can also caution other users in description that this place is dangerous to visit.
How do I use the categories section in a place object?
Click here for answers.
I added some place tags 2 days ago, but only registered today. How do I get credit for the other place tags?
Sorry, but there is no way. And after you add many others, you will not miss those credits.
My place tag has disappeared!
See also: Undeleting/Place restoration
It might have been deleted. To see if it has click if so its best to click "Extras" then "Deleted Places" from your "username" menu drop down list. The map will switch to a view showing all deleted places; if your place has been deleted it can be viewed here.
Can I edit place tags created by other users? Can other users edit my place tags? If so, do I need to inform/ask permission before doing so?
You can edit and needs no prompting to any user as well as they do not need to ask permission from you. But add good things and not change one point for a comma to stay with his name on the marker.
How do I edit a description?
Move your mouse over the desired location, click the left button in the upper left corner hover over the menu and then click Edit this page. After all done click the save button.
When places change, ie. they move or discontinue business, is it best to indicate that or delete the place tag?
Please see here
I can't see the name of the last editor at the bottom of the place window?
The name of the last editor can be seen in the history of the tag.
In Old Wikimapia, why can't I see a user's name at the bottom of the window in some place objects?
They were made by guests or unregistered user (UU).
I found several place tags marking the same place. What do I do?
Ask for the removal of the most most informative site (or recent and leave the oldest), thus respecting the establishment of the previous location. A tip: put on the map Satellite + old places (to avoid a site already created is recreated again).
Tall buildings in a city sometimes seem to be leaning sideways. How should I mark those locations?
All buildings should be outlined at their base (ground level), regardless of whether their images appear to be leaning. When the images are from directly or nearly directly overhead, the roof edges may be used to approximate the ground level footprint if they have the same dimensions.
Tall buildings and structures like radio towers appear to "lean" because of the way they have been photographed from the air. For further clarification, please read this.
Can I add places which do not exist any more?
You can, but only if you:
- know the precise dimensions
- add the historical layer/disappeared place category
If the above requirements are lacking, you should not add non-existent places.
Is there an easier way to find an area on the map which needs improving?
To see what area needs improving you can use status grid. If you are interested in specific map area (ie., cause you are familiar with the area and can improve it better) we recommend you to add a watchlist, so you can monitor the activity (new places, changes, deletions, etc) and know whether any new place needs to be improved.
I found some places near the north/south pole! What is going on?
Most are the result of vandals. Nevertheless, there is no valid markings indicating settlements and scientific stations.
I don't know what to write in object description. Can I copy the title in description?
No, because title information should remain in the title section. If you cannot provide a few descriptive words about the object then you may add its informal or unofficial name, if there is one.
Should I mark tunnels and bridges with the polygon tool or the linear tools?
Tunnels and bridges should only be marked with the polygon tool. Tunnels and bridges serve as specially constructed passageways for roads, railroads, footpaths, waterways etc. They are independent of linear features and will often have different names.
Tips for tunnels
- When marking a tunnel which cannot be seen due to its hidden or subterranean nature, be sure to mark it as accurately as you can with the polygon tool.
- Assign the tunnel with the [tunnel] and [invisible] category. The [invisible] category will render the tunnel invisible and is necessary to avoid visual overlapping if it passes under other places.
- The portion or segments of the linear feature which passes through the tunnel should be rendered with a minus or lower elevation level via the properties option.
- Tunnel gallery
Invisible polygon visible via hovering cursor
Tunnel segment of linear feature selected for lower elevation
Selecting lower elevation
Polygon invisible, linear feature rendered with lower elevation indicated by transparent section
Semi-Protection
The tag info tells me that the place is 'semi-protected'. What does that mean?
Some tags are often vandalized and needs protection, this can only be done by Advanced Users. Registered users and unregistered users can not edit tags at all.
When should I semi-protect an article?
If a site has been the victim of vandalism, or repeatedly spammed by irrelevant or political inflammatory comments; the best place to ask for protection is this forum thread. Only advanced users can put on protective items (tags).
Polygons
Why can't I add more points to a polygon?
There are limitations on the total number of polygon dots you can add depending on your user level:
- Level 0 users: 200 dots
- Level 1-8 users: 500 dots
- Advanced users: 2,500 dots
Why can't I create big polygons and why do I get the message: "Too big polygon"?
There are limitations on the polygon size you can make depending on your User Level.
Can I revert a polygon to the state before it was vandalized?
Yes you can. You can do this by applying the correct polygon state of a previous revision as current.
Can I delete a polygon?
No, this isn't possible. If you think the polygon shape is wrong, you should resize it so that it is correct. If the incorrect polygon has hundreds of dots and you find it too laborious to correct manually, please contact an Advanced User to assist you.
I don't understand guideline 1.2. "A place must have at least a properly constructed outline"?
This is a minimum requirement for a place object to be acceptable. A polygon should clearly outline a map object you are marking in the aerial/satellite image. A properly constructed outline means a polygon should never overlap an area that is not part of the object. A place object should have an accurate outline but it doesn't need a title or description, although the inclusion of which is preferred for the place object to be useful. If the place object lacks proper details, it is still possible for other users to improve it.
I tried to add new points to a polygon, but I failed. What is the reason? (150 points limitation)
Regular users can draw up to 500 dots per polygon. When adding new dots to a polygon you should stick to the same limit, which means that total number of dots (first+added) should not overdraw 500 dots.
Due to the polygon limit can I add several polygons and use them as "jigsaw pieces" (terrain patches) to construct a larger object?
No. A polygon should mark an object (named or unnamed) with its own identifiable outline. Using smaller fictitious objects to construct a larger object because of a polygon limitation is not permissible. The practice of "jigsaw piecing" or "terrain patching" does not comply with Wikimapia Guidelines clause 1.2. Furthermore, the deletion of such places becomes necessary as per the deletion clauses 3.1 and 3.2 of the Wikimapia Guidelines. However, smaller interlocking and tessellating polygons can be marked if they represent recognizable places in their own right.
I added a polygon for a place but my edit count stayed the same. Why?
When you add a polygon to a place this reflects in line 'Polygons added to places without a polygon' in profile 'Stats', not in edit count.
Can I use polygons as arrows or waymarkers to indicate the route or direction of a place?
No. This is because arrows and waymarkers aren't real places with definable outlines. Polygons should not be manipulated to indicate anything other than the outline of a place.
How do I rotate a polygon?
- 1: Select menu resize outline.
- 2: Right click on a point and select rotate.
- 3: Rotate until polygon is in desired position.
Comments
Am I free to make any comment?
You are free to add comments as long as they are kept clean (no profane or obscene language), and are not directed at another user in a negative manner.
Also see: Comments and Comment Guidelines
How do I delete a bad comment?
Only Advanced Users and users who are level 5+ can delete comments. If you find a bad comment you think should be deleted you can report it Here.
Why are the authors of some comments shown as blue links, but others are just black?
Guests usernames are black, registered users have blue username links, which direct to their profile pages.
Photos
How do I add photos?
Open place description, hover over ‘menu’ at the top and click ‘add/manage photos’. Here you can upload new photos and delete old ones. Remember: photos that violate photo policies or just do not refer to the place will be deleted.
How do I know when a photo was taken?
You can only know who and when uploaded it (it is written below the photo). You may ask a user, who uploaded a photo, when it was taken, but we can not guarantee that he will answer for sure.
Can I make notes about a photograph?
No, unfortunately this feature is not available yet. You can only give it a name, when uploading it, and leave a comment with your notes below the photo.
Which photos should be deleted?
You should delete those photos that violate photo policies or just do not refer to the place.
As you can upload only 7 photos for every object it is also permitted and even encouraged to delete photos of bad quality if only you can replace them with better quality photos.
How do I delete a bad photo?
Click on the tag where you have found the bad photo, hover the cursor over menu at the top and then click on add/manage photos. In the tab where you see Current photos hover the cursor over the bad photo, then a Delete button should appear underneath the photo, click on it and the bad photo will get deleted. It is to be noted, that this is the same place where you can upload a new photo.
How can I tell which place tags contain photos?
You can not. But you can filter all places by ‘places without photos’ category and see which places do not have photos. Therefore all places without red marks contain photos.
Can I add a video of a place?
Yes, you can provide a link from youtube.com in place description, it will be shown with a YouTube embedded player and a preview.
Under what conditions can I use the "free" images from Wikimedia Commons?
Click here for answers.
Can I add photos to linear objects: to streets, rivers, railways?
Yes.
If I edit or remove copyright, attribution and watermarks from copyrighted photos, can I still use them?
Absolutely not! Images where copyright information has been defaced or removed is unlawful. The submission of such images is prohibited.
Can I use images taken from Google Street View and other similar street view services?
Images from street view services such as Google Street View, Yandex etc. can only be used if you have satisfied their copyright policies for redistribution and Wikimapia's own policies for hosting such images. Non-compliant images used in Wikimapia should be updated with the necessary attribution details or removed.
Deletion
How do I delete a place?
Places can be deleted by selecting 'Delete place' under 'Menu' in the object's window. Please be aware that you may only delete a place as per the deletion reasons (under 3. Deleting tags) of the Guidelines.
What actions are acceptable, or even encouraged, when deleting place tags?
Before deleting an object, read the Wikimapia Policies carefully to make sure you are doing everything right. If you have any doubts about deleting a place you can discuss it on the forum or ask an Advanced User for advice.
I found some places that should be deleted, but I can't delete them since I am only a regular user (RU). What should I do?
If you can’t delete an object, it might be under an AU protection. You should contact an AU, explain you reasons and ask for help.
How long does it take for a "deleted" place to actually disappear entirely?
After you made a request to delete an object the system will inform you in what time the place will be deleted on the place page. Usually it takes five days (if removed by a regular user) and couple of hours (if removed by an AU). Between deletion request and actual disappearance of the object, a user can cancel the deletion by clicking on ‘cancel’ button.
How do I know if one of my places has been deleted?
You can check your Stats tab in your profile window. Your created places which are deleted will be shown via the counter next to Deleted from them:
Do deleted places still show up on my list of created places?
Yes. If someone deleted your places they still will be written in ‘Places and streets created’ line (and ‘Deleted from them’ line as well), but they will be marked as deleted and you won’t get experience point for them.
How many places can I delete per day/week?
It depends on your user level. On the first user level you can delete three places in one hour only. UL 2 - ten objects in ~16 minutes, UL3 - twenty objects in ~13 minutes, UL4 - thirty in 5 minutes, UL5+ - eighty in 2 minutes, AUs can delete 200 objects in 90 seconds.
I found two tags which mark the same place, which one should be kept and which one should be deleted?
Double-check them to see if they are in fact duplicates. Similarities with titles or polygon sizes does not necessarily mean they are duplicates, one tag may mark one part of the place while another may mark a different part of the same place e.g. a building and its external property or two different objects on the same property.
If you have double-checked the duplicates and concluded they are copies marking the same place, then the oldest tag should be kept (edited and improved if necessary) and the newer tag deleted if all other factors are equal. "if all other factors are equal" means evaluating both tags against each other and determining if the balance of their "weight" or "value" is more or less level. Factors to be considered are:
- creation by registered user or "guest"
- duplication circumstances? (was duplication innocent or intentional?)
- polygon existence
- polygon accuracy/complexity
- description quality
- number of photos (and their relevance & quality)
- number of languages added to the titles and descriptions and the "quality" of those descriptions
- inclusion of child objects if tag is a parent building
- number of relevant comments
- use of address
- use of relevant categories
- building checkbox checked if tag is a building
- use of Wikipedia articles
The decision to judge one tag against another one is not straightforward. Always try to assume good faith and use common-sense to assess the circumstances as this often helps to reach the right decision. If you're still unsure, please seek advice by creating a topic in the Correction support forum.
If a business, shop, store etc, moves or is shut down, should I delete the defunct place object?
If the building still exists, and it hasn't been demolished, it should not be deleted. We recommend you update the place object's article by describing its present function. It is essential you update its title, description, address and category to reflect the change.
Can I undelete a non-compliant place object and re-purpose/convert it into an acceptable one?
The practice of salvaging a deleted place object and reassigning its identity is forbidden if the newer object is:
- situated at a different location from the original
- has a completely different function to the original
All objects must be marked with their own outlines and are treated as individual objects. For example, the place object for a jetty (which has rotted away) cannot be converted into a lake or boat house - it must be deleted (unless the jetty is rebuilt). The lake and boat house must be marked separately with their own place object identities.
Recycling obsolete objects and reusing them may seem desirable but ultimately defeats the object of populating Wikimapia's map and database with unique places and overall place count respectively. The exceptions to this rule are:
- an existing place can be re-purposed within one day of its creation if a user has marked it erroneously
- a deleted place whose deletion reason is invalid can be restored and edited to reflect its current status
The wilful and persistent act of undeleting place objects and recycling them into compliant objects is forbidden. In addition, the premeditated act of abusing the aforementioned exceptions is also forbidden.
In China many place tags are marked ?????(cn). Should I delete them?
No, you should not delete them. Seeing such symbols simply means that your computer does not support Chinese symbols.
Why do deleted objects still show up in Google search results?
Objects put up for deletion will be removed after a specified time. However, Google will continue to display the deleted/outdated information until they update their own search results to show the latest web pages. This is because Google takes 'snapshots' of web pages it examines and caches (stores) that version as a back-up. The cached version is what Google uses to judge if a page is a good match for your query. Unfortunately, these stored pages may be outdated until they are updated. You can either be patient until Google removes the outdated data or you can contact them here.
Linear Tools
Can I add extinct or proposed linear works?
No. You can only add linear features which exist in reality and (in the case of transport linear features) must be functional as a complete thoroughfare or route for pedestrian and/or vehicular conveyance.
Can I mark tunnels and bridges with the linear tools?
No. See this
Roads
I cannot add roads
If you are a new user, it is most likely a temporary limitation has been placed on your ability to use the "Road" tool because your experience level is too low. To increase your experience level, you must first add places to the map with the "Add place" tool or edit previously created objects. Please make sure the places you add are accurate and proper. Once you have gained enough experience with the "Add place" tool, you will be allowed to use the "Road" tool. The restriction is necessary because the "Road" tool has specialized features that new/inexperienced users find difficult to use properly. Adding roads requires skill and so it is only available to experienced users who are familiar with the use of other tools. Click here for more on experience levels. If you have suddenly lost the ability to add roads then you will need to create a report topic in the forum here and a bug report here.
Should I add multiple road segments to mark individual lanes in a road?
Only if a physical divider is present between those lanes. Otherwise use segment options to set lanes number.
Can I mark parking lots, airport taxiways and runways with the road tool?
No you should not, the road tool is specifically designed to mark road types.
What road type should I use to mark a road?
Depending on the type of the road (dirt road, courtyard road, street/low traffic, road/high traffic, highway).
Am I allowed to enter the zip/post code in the title field along with the road name?
You should really not, however you may include the zip/post codes in the description field.
Railroads
This tool allow you to map the railway segments onto the map page. To have more information about the use of this tool, please see Railroads section
Rivers
Can I add a polygon for a river whose sides are too complex for the riverside feature?
No. You cannot add polygons for a river since the river tool is designed for this purpose and only it should be used for linear water bodies. Instead, the riverside feature should be shaped accurately as possible to cover the expanse of the complex river.
The only instance where you may add a polygon is for intersections (confluences) or the point where a river drains into a larger water body such as a lake. Be sure to use the correct category(s) for water bodies marked with a polygon.
Can I add multiple river lines for one river?
No. You can only add one river line per river. The only instance where you can use more than one river line is if you are marking an intersection or confluence from an existing river line.
Ferry
Can I use the ferry tool to mark rivers and vice versa?
No. This tool is only for the mapping of genuine ferry routes. To map river you must use the river tool.
Edit Summary
What is the edit summary section I can see in the edit window of all tags?
See here.
Can I make a comment which has nothing to do with an edit?
No. You can only make edit summaries.
Interface
Wikimapia Screen
How do I use all those things on the Wikimapia screen?
Click here for answers.
When I look at place's description page, there is a line near the top that says, for example, "World/xxxxx/yyyyy/zzzzz". What is this telling me?
This is a breadcrumb line or "world string". It shows a list of places according to their administrative levels. Please be aware this list may not show the native administrative levels of the place object, so it should only be referred to as an approximation of places near to the place object. Errors cannot be corrected.
See above.
‘Hotel booking’ is a useful tool for tourists. If you are planning to visit any specific place in short time, you can find it on the map and click on ‘Hotel booking’ under your username. Afterwards you will see all hotels marked with special icons. This allows you to choose and book a hotel depending on its geographical position. Click on any hotel and see its page on booking.com.
What is Distance Measure and what can I do with it?
It is a tool which allows to measure the distance between two points. To do this you need to mark on the map both points or a detailed route from one point to another and the system will calculate its length. Afterwards you may send the link of what you see on the map to your friend by sending URL of the page on the top of your browser.
Those are Add place, Distance measure (see previous) and Zoom.
Those are different map types that you can choose depending on what you are searching for.
Those are categories that system offers you on default. If you are searching for a category that is not in the list, you need to type it in ‘Search categories’ bar or find it in ‘Categories hierarchy’ in tools.
Why is the tooltip (when I hover over a place) not always the same as its title?
Actually, they should be the same. If they are not, please, report about it.
What do the red dots under the names of places mean?
Red dot under an object name means that the object is a city.
What are the icons in some places and what do they mean?
These are category icons, they are shown even if you do not using category filter. If you want to know their meaning open ‘Rendering of categories’ in ‘tools’ section.
User Profile/Account
Why should I register?
While you are an unregistered user of Wikimapia you can use a limited amount of tools and options only. Since you are registered you can gain experience points, advance your user level and get access to new tools. Besides, only registered users can post on forum.
Do you have any advice for new members?
Yes, you can read them here.
It says in my profile that I created 106 places. But I can only count 82. What happened to the other places I've created?
Apparently they were deleted, so you can find them in ‘Deleted from them’ line.
Can I see how many places I have deleted?
In stats section in your profile you can see the list of all your actions including ‘Places requested to be deleted’ and ‘Place deletion requests cancelled’.
How do I mark my own location? Why should I?
To mark your location find ‘Choose your location’ at the top of your profile page. Then choose your location by positioning the map and placing the marker. Location may be approximate for privacy. Your location will be visible to other users, so they could figure out where are you from.
How do I delete a message someone sent me?
Unfortunately you cannot delete a message, it will stay permanently in your inbox.
Is there any way I can change my user name? I hate this one!
This is not an easy task. You really should have thought of this before registering! If you really have a good reason, you must send an e-mail administrators in WikiMapia@gmail.com. They may be able to help you. Otherwise, you have two options: 1) Learn to live with it, or 2) abandon the account and start a new, re-registering.
Someone has stolen my Wikimapia account and password. What can I do?
Send e-mail to administrators in WikiMapia@gmail.com. Ask to have your password reset. Remember that the thief may have changed your e-mail, so be prepared to give evidence that you really are the original owner of the account. And be ready to apologize for who the thief might have offended
I don't want to be part of Wikimapia any more. How do I delete my account?
Unfortunately you cannot delete your account, alternatively you may want to change your password to something you will not be able to remember easily or you can stop visiting Wikimapia altogether which is even more easier.
Place Search
How do I search for something?
Type the name of the place you're looking for in the search box in the Wikimapia Menu Bar at the top of your screen, and press the Search button. A list results matching your query shall be returned in the sidebar. You can also tailor your searches by location or coordinates by choosing the respective tabs underneath the search box in the sidebar.
How can I use Wikimapia to search for hotels on my travels?
There are three ways to search for hotels:
- Type the name of a hotel or simply type "hotel" in the search box and click the button with the search icon
- Type "hotel" in the category search box and select "hotel" in the dropdown suggestion list
- Under your username, select "Extras" and then "Hotel booking"
Categories
What are Categories?
Category filter is a tool that allows you to search for places of one type (ie. bars, hospitals, etc) by their category.
How do I search for something?
You just need to hover over ‘Categories’ on the top menu and either choose the category you are looking for (if its shown) or search it in ‘Search categories’ bar. Then you’ll see that all the places on the map that fit your category will we have red marks. To quit a category search click ‘cancel’ on the bottom of the map.
How can I find, for example, theaters in one city?
See previous
What categories should I use if the place object's function changes?
Always use the category which best describes the primary function of the place object. For example, where the following occurs:
- A house is bought by a banking company and turned into a bank
- A shop moves into an air raid shelter
- An old mansion is converted into a museum
You would do the following:
| Previous place object function | New place object function | Previous category (to be removed) | New category |
|---|---|---|---|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
Can I use a special category to alter a place object visually?
See here.
User Tools
Watchlists
How do I create a watchlist?
To create a watchlist go to Tools click on watchlist then click add, outline the area you wish to watch, enter a name and click save. You can navigate back to see your watchlist's this way.
Is there a limit to the number of watchlist's I can create?
No, there is not limit to the number of watchlist's you can create.
Community
Forum
When can I join in the forum discussions?
As soon as you are registered.
Why am I not able to post into the forum?
Every regular user can post into the forum. If you can not then you are either an unregistered user or you were banned on forum for guidelines of Wikimapia forum violation.
Should I ask a question anywhere in the forum, or should I start a new topic?
If there is already a topic that refers to your question, you can post your question there. You should start a new thread only if there is no topic alike. Remember: Off-topic posts may be deleted by moderators.
How can I make sure that someone sees my posting in the forum? (should I post it in all sections?)
There is no way to guarantee that someone will certainly see your posting, but new postings usually appear on the top of the forum page, so users might see them.
I posted a message in the forum, but I have changed my mind. Can/should I delete it?
You can delete your message only during a short period of time after posting. In other situation you can not delete your messages, only forum moderators have such power. So you can contact one of them and explain the reason why your message needs to be deleted.
I added a photo to my profile, but my forum posting still shows "no foto"?
Wait for a while. It may take some time.
I remember seeing something discussed in the forum last week, but now I can't find it. Is it possible to find it again?
On such a case there is a search bar at the top right corner of the forum page.
Why do forum messages always run off the right side of my screen?
The forum is designed for a screen resolution of 1024x768 or higher. If yours is set to less than this, the forum display will be wider than your screen.
How can I make a text bold, italicize or underline it?
You will have to use square brackets [][/]
- for bold: [b]text[/b]
- to italicize: [i]text[/i]
- to underline: [u]text[/u]
How to embed images?
to embed image: [img]url goes here[/img]
Other Users
How do I find out where another user lives
If a user marked his\her location you may figure out where is he\she from. Otherwise, you need to ask directly to the user, but be ready for a disappointment, since many users prefer to keep your privacy.
How can I contact another user?
Find it (a) in the forum or on a map of users, or the link somewhere that he (a) has described or discussed. Click on your username. This will open the user profile that you want to contact. Click "send message to this user", type your message in the text box and click the "send message". The message you sent is shown above a new text box empty. That's it: do not click the button "send message" again. If you have already sent a message to this user, you name it (a) will be on your list of contacts: open your profile, click on "Messages", find the desired user name and proceed from there.
How do I contact a user if I only know his username?
You can find him/her by rank. Find 'Users rank' in a 'tools' section in your profile. In the window that opens, there is a search field 'Search username'. Enter the user name and click 'search'. Note that the name must exactly match the user (no matter, however, if the letters are uppercase or lowercase). If you have trouble finding it, you can ask for help from other users in the forum. Maybe some of us may find the desired user.
How can I find out the email address linked to a user account?
You can not. This information is private. You will not find any e-mail here. The only way is to ask the user, by sending him a message.
I have a disagreement with another user. What should I do?
Bring the items to the forum. We will mediate the "ceasefire" between you and another user.
Someone keeps editing my places!
If you have a dispute, please notify the fellow user and moderators in the Wikimapia Forum. They'll try to resolve issues, but only if parties are willing to discuss their sides of the issue accurate and fairly.
What is a sockpuppet?
English Wikipedia page says: "sockpuppet is an online identity used in order to deceive the other members of a virtual community. In its initial use, a "sockpuppet" was a false identity through which a member of a community on the Internet manifests itself while pretending that it does not, as does a puppeteer manipulating a puppet. In WikiMapia, a "sockpuppet" is someone who has a second account.
Is it acceptable to have a sockpuppet?
For most users, no. However, there are users who have higher levels "sockpuppets" for experiments. They are useful in this regard.
User Levels
What is the difference between user levels?
The higher user level you are the more tools and options are available for you.
What are the advantages & responsibilities of being an advanced user?
Receiving Advanced User Status will grant you access to following tools and privileges:
- Ban tool
- Protection
- Deletion/restoration of comments
- Faster object deletion
- Up to 2.500 points per polygon
- The ability to vote on AU's promotion
Being an Advanced User means you need to look after the map. For example, coordinate and encourage users, help new users, arrange debates, keep track of changes on the map, i. e. editing or deleting objects and comments, set temporary protection on objects in case of edit wars.
How do I become an advanced user?
Any user with level 5 or + may become advanced users and his/her candidacy (it will be offered automatically) will be put to vote. If current Advanced Users decide that a person has demonstrated him/herself as a competent editor and can help Wikimapia by taking additional responsibilities and powers he/she will be invited in Advanced Users group.
Will a high rank qualify me to become an advanced user?
A high rank itself can not make you an advanced user. Though the more you contribute to Wikimapia the higher is you rank, so the closer the moment that you may be offered to become an advanced user..
How many places do I have to mark to become an advanced user?
All these questions have the same answer: There is no magic number you need to achieve because the promotion AU is a manual process done by administrators, and this is not automatic, regardless of what numbers you have.
How many good votes do I need to become an advanced user?
See previous
How long should one be a regular user to become an advanced user?
See previous
Why is my account marked as limited/banned?
If you were banned you’ll get a notification message, that explains the reasons and proofs of your ban. In addition, you’ll see a red window on the right of your profile page that notifies you about the reasons and details of limitation.
How can I tell what user level a user is?
In profile of every user there is a number of his user level.
Can a sockpuppet (clone) account apply for AU status?
No, it cannot. Only a personal account (one account per individual) can apply for AU status if it is eligible for application. This is not applicable to separate accounts belonging to different individuals who live in the same household or use the same IP address.
Can advanced user test accounts apply for AU status?
It is strictly forbidden for Advanced user duplicate accounts (openly declared for test purposes) to apply for promotion.
Vandalism
What is vandalism?
Deliberate actions aimed to corrupt information. Vandalism can take many forms. For example: removing correct, useful information from place tags, or adding false or offensive information. Deleting correct and useful tags, moving tags away from their correct locations, adding offensive photos, adding/re-shaping polygons so that they depict nonsensical/obscene shapes and replacing a place tag's description with one in a different language (instead of adding the new language), deliberately creating duplicate place tags, all constitute vandalism. Disrupting the forum is also considered vandalism.
My place tag has been vandalised. What should I do?
Post a message with the details in the section User behaviour and vandalism Forum WikiMapia. We're here to help.
How can I revert the tag to the state before it was vandalised?
Find ‘History’ in ’menu’ in place tag, find the revision that you think is a vandalism and click ‘Undo this revision’.
How do restore a vandalized description to what it used to be?
See previous
Is is possible to protect articles that are vandalized often?
Yes. Advanced User can "semiprotect" a place. If you want a place to be semi-protected, then send a request in the section Correction support forum.
Banning
What is a ban?
A limitation caused by disregarding, violation or misinterpretation of the rules.
If I am banned and believe that I do not deserve it, What can I do?
Restrictions and banning are applicable to users who infringe Wikimapia's policies. Read the policies and make sure that you didn't violate any of them. If not, contact an AU and explain your reasons. AUs have the power to ban and unblock users, so he/she might help you.
How can I report a bad user so that he/she is banned quickly?
You should contact an AU and explain your reasons. AUs have the power to ban users, so he/she might help you.
Voting
Why should I vote for a user?
You should vote for a user if you want to provide a positive feedback about his/her contributions to Wikimapia, to encourage a user.
How do I vote for a user?
If you have 2+ user level you can vote for other users. Click on a user profile page, click on ‘votes about user’ and you’ll see a green voting form above a list of users who have already voted for a user.
When can I start to vote for people?
As soon as you are 2+ level
Is there a reason I can't vote for users?
No, there is no such a reason. You can freely vote for a user if you want.
Is it proper to ask for votes?
No. Voting for someone means you want to provide a positive feedback about users contributions to Wikimapia. So asking for votes is poor behavior.
How can I get more votes?
The more valuable places and useful information you add the more people would like to vote for you
Someone gave me a good vote. Should I do the same for her/him?
If you find that user deserving a good vote for his efforts on Wikimapia. If not - do not vote for a user only just to thank him for his good vote for u.
How do I remove an unwanted vote?
You may delete an unwanted vote if open the list of users, who voted for you, in your profile.
Someone said I voted too frequently. Is there a limit?
No there is no such a limit. However it is considered bad etiquette to give votes to others just to receive more yourself, only vote for user if you feel they do good work.
Should I give a good vote to a user who is No.1 in the ranking system?
No this is not necessary. The ranking system calculates a user's rank based on the quantity of his/her contributions. The ranking system does not calculate quality and therefore it is undesirable and illogical to give votes based on the assumption 'quantity equals quality' because it is impossible to determine quality without meticulous scrutiny. You may use your votes freely, but be aware that voting without due consideration or simply abusing the voting system shall affect your reputation and credibility.
Tip: Always judge the merits of a user's work, not the frequency.
Error Messages
"You have reached the limit for this action. You need to wait for seconds"
There is a limit on similar actions that a user can do within a certain period of time (i.e. a newly registered user can only delete three places in an hour). Please consult User Levels for more information.
"You can not use this feature because you are banned (see details)"
This message means that you have been banned and are restricted from performing or accessing the selected feature.
"To use this function please login or create an account
You must create a Wikimapia account or login to your existing account to use the selected function.
"Your experience level is too low to use this function"
Your experience level is too low to use the selected function. Please consult User Levels for more information.
"You are not allowed to use this function"
You are not allowed to use the selected function. This could be due to various reasons such as your user level, account status or the required special role. Please consult User Levels for more information.
"To use this function please activate your account. Check your mailbox for activation e-mail. If you didn't receive activation message, please check that your email is correct and request another activation message from your profile settings."
To use the selected function you must activate your Wikimapia account (this is required for most Wikimapia functions). Check your mailbox for activation e-mail. If you didn't receive activation message, please check that your email is correct and request another activation message from your profile settings
"Sorry, this object is temporary protected in response to an ongoing high risk of vandalism."
The object that you are trying to edit has been temporarily protected by an Advanced User. Please see Protection for more information.
"Too big/long polygon"
There are limitations on the total number of polygon dots you can add depending on your user level:
- Level 0 users: 200 dots, ~31.64 km²
- Level 1-8 users: 500 dots, ~244.14 km²
- Advanced users: 2,500 dots, ~996,006 km²
"You must remove the child objects before deleting the object"
This message means you can not delete an object as there are child objects that refer to it. You need to delete them first.
"Wikimapia has just updated! Please reload the page or press shift + ctrl R in order to apply fixes and enjoy new features"
This message means that Admins have just made some changes in Wikimapia, so you need to reload the page to see the updated version of Wikimapia.
"External link. You are about to leave Wikimapia.org and visit (Website Name). This link was added by users and Wikimapia takes no responsibility for any of its contents."
External
Can I see Wikimapia places on Google Earth?
Yes. You can download Wikimapia layer on Google Earth.
Can I place part of the map on my own web page?
Yes! Find the screen you want to place on your page. Place your mouse over "WikiMapia" in the upper left corner and select "Map on your page" A popup window will appear with the corners of a rectangle. Just push the corners of the rectangle to resize the box and then copy the html code that is shown and paste it into your page.
Can I use Wikimapia with a GPS device?
No, unfortunately this feature is not available yet.
What browser do you recommend to use with Wikimapia?
Any modern one, Google Chrome, Firefox 3.6+, IE9+, Opera, Safari.
How do I make a jpeg or bmp shot of specific part of the map?
First, check the licence of satellite photos provider, then capture the screen and transfer the picture into whatever format you need.
I want to send a Wikimapia page to a friend. How do I do that?
If you want to send a link to a specific area of Wikimapia map use URL of the page on the top of your browser.
I clicked a Wikimapia link that someone gave me. Why am I seeing all place descriptions in Spanish now?
The person who sent you the link used Spanish as their language. Place your mouse over "WikiMapia" and select "Change language". Select the language you want.
How can I print the map with the names of the locations (without using another application to overlay the points and names)?
The best you can do is capture the screen and print it.
Advertising
Can I advertise a place in Wikimapia?
See here
I own a business. Can I tag it?
Yes, you can tag it. You can give factual information: company name, address, what you do or sell, how long has the company, a link to its website, that sort of thing. You should not include promotional material ("the best in town", "good prices", prices in general ...), that would be considered propaganda. On the other hand, you can say: "See my website for availability and prices."
What is the policy on advertising land for sale?
The advertising of land for sale is not allowed under any circumstances. This means it is forbidden to advertise using Wikimapia's map tools, description and comments sections of place/linear objects, the Forum, the Blog or any other intellectual property belonging to Wikimapia.
However, Wikimapia allows advertising through its Ad service. Please be aware that it is subject to conditions.
