Enhancements and Additions to VanMap

We are pleased to announce the following additions and enhancements to VanMap. Some of these have been available for a while, but were not previously announced.

September 2009

The City has launched its OpenData download site where you can download GIS VanMap data and other data for free. Please click here to link to the City's OpenData site.

What is VanMap?

VanMap is a Web-based map system that lets you have Vancouver at your fingertips. VanMap pulls together information and data from a variety of sources, and puts it into maps you can view, save or print out. It's not your average road map either. There are dozens of features you can turn on and off with the click of a button. VanMap doesn't just offer street names and intersections, for example it can show you:

• property lines
• zoning information
• sewer mains
• water mains
• addresses
• public places

Need zoning, sewer or street information for building or renovating? Thinking of moving and not sure where the schools are located? Trying to remember exactly where that great looking park is located? Have an appointment and want to make sure you get to the right place? VanMap can show you. VanMap also links you directly to community Web pages that offer details on amenities, services, and events in all Vancouver neighbourhoods. And look for more great features to be added in the future.

VanMap has three versions

• VanMap ActiveX Control version for Windows and Internet Explorer
• VanMap Java Edition version for Mac and for Windows: This version has less functionality than the ActiveX Control Viewer version, but works with more browsers, on any OS.
• VanMapLite: VanMapLite has even fewer layers and less functionality than the other two versions.

The first two versions require an Autodesk MapGuide 6.5 viewer installed on your computer, while VanMapLite does not require any plug-ins or viewers and works with all PNG (Portable Network Graphics) supporting browsers on any OS. (Almost all popular browsers support the PNG image format.)

Windows users are encouraged to use VanMap ActiveX Control Viewer version with Internet Explorer and Mac users are encouraged to use VanMap Java Edition Viewer version with Safari in order to take advantage of a richer version of VanMap.

We have made our best effort to support the more popular browsers and operating systems. Unfortunately, our effort is limited by what the underlying Autodesk MapGuide software supports. Please check the browser compatibility chart for more information about supported browsers and operating systems.

In just a few steps VanMap can be loaded on your computer. Please take a look at the links in the blackbar above, particularly Setup & Compatibility and Help & Documentation, and when you're ready, start VanMap.

VanMap Home will always bring you back to this page. VanMap news and updates will be available from Recent News in the navigation bar. Check out the FAQs for browser, platform and troubleshooting information. We hope you enjoy using VanMap!

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Did you know?

You can use the Shift key to select and then turn on all of the layers between the first and last one you select.