Forum Discussion
Azure map visual with filled map layer not interactive anymore after adding reference layer.
I added an Azure Maps visual with a filled map layer.
Because I wanted the city boundaries to remain visible even when there was no data, I added a reference layer.
However, after adding the reference layer, it’s no longer possible to cross‑filter the map by clicking on one of the cities. This did work before adding the reference layer.
The tooltips still appear, but the map no longer responds to selections.
How can I fix this?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Mies
Instead of using a reference layer, you can try one of the following approaches:
1. Include all cities in your dataset (even with null/0 values)
This allows the filled map layer to generate and render the boundaries on its own.2. Switch visuals
Consider using an alternative option such as a Mapbox visual, which offers more control over layers.3. Remove the reference layer
This will restore full interactivity.
However, the downside is that cities without data will no longer display boundaries.Please mark this as solved if it resolves your issue.
13 Replies
Reference layer blocks interactivity.
Format pane, Reference layer, turn OFF "Allow selection". Filled map regains click filtering while boundaries stay visible.
- Thanks for your response. I don’t see the "Allow selection" option for the reference layer on my side. I noticed that recent Power BI updates include changes to the Azure Maps visual, so I’ve requested an update. Once the update is applied, I’ll try this solution again.
Hi Mies ,
Just following up on your issue, could you please confirm if it has been resolved after the update, or if you still need further assistance?
We’re happy to support you further and help you reach a resolution.
Best regards,
Chaithra E.Hi v-echaithra
Unfortunately, my issue is still not resolved after the update. We are now using the March 2026 version of Power BI Desktop, but I still don’t see the options described below.
If you have alternative ideas or possible solutions, I would really appreciate your input.
Thanks in advance.
Kind regards,
Mies
Hi Mies ,
Thank you for the update, and for confirming that you’re now on the March 2026 version.
Since the “Allow selection” option is still not available and the issue persists, this confirms that the reference layer is continuing to intercept click events, which is a known limitation in the current Azure Maps visual behavior .
At this point, I would recommend the following workarounds:
Avoid using the reference layer and instead enhance the Filled map layer borders (increase stroke width and contrast) to keep boundaries visible.
Alternatively, consider using a secondary dataset containing all regions to simulate boundaries, ensuring interactivity is preserved.If maintaining both interactivity and always visible boundaries is critical, this scenario may not yet be fully supported by the visual.
Please let us know if you’d need further help, we’d be happy to assist further.
Best regards,
Chaithra E.
Hi Mies ,
Since interaction works again after removing the reference layer, the issue is that the Azure Maps visual reference layer is sitting on top and blocking click interactions with the filled map layer.
To fix this, try:
- Reordering the layers so the filled map layer is above the reference layer
- If reordering doesn’t help, keep the reference layer but understand it may prevent cross-filtering
This is a known limitation: reference layers can capture clicks, so the map shows tooltips but won’t allow selection.
If this resolves your issue, please mark it as solved so others can benefit.
Thank you for your reply. I’ve received the suggestion to reorder the layers multiple times. However, when I format the Azure Maps visual, I don’t see an option to change the layer order.
Could you clarify where exactly this setting should be available?
Hi Mies
Instead of using a reference layer, you can try one of the following approaches:
1. Include all cities in your dataset (even with null/0 values)
This allows the filled map layer to generate and render the boundaries on its own.2. Switch visuals
Consider using an alternative option such as a Mapbox visual, which offers more control over layers.3. Remove the reference layer
This will restore full interactivity.
However, the downside is that cities without data will no longer display boundaries.Please mark this as solved if it resolves your issue.
Hi Mies ,
As a workaround, I’d suggest trying one of the following approaches:
Avoid using the reference layer, or
Consider alternative methods like enhancing borders or using a full-region dataset to maintain boundaries without affecting interactivity.
Best Regards
Chaithra E.Hi Mies ,
May I ask if you have resolved this issue? Please let us know if you have any further issues, we are happy to help.
Thank you.
