Geo queries let you perform location-based operations on geographic data stored in your database. Find nearby locations, check if coordinates fall within boundaries, calculate distances between points, and more.
Appwrite supports geo queries through spatial columns that store coordinates, shapes, and areas as first-class data types.
Also called spatial queries
In database terminology, these could also be known as spatial queries.
Coordinates are specified as [longitude, latitude] arrays. Distance measurements can be specified in meters or degrees.
Use cases
Use geo queries for location-based features:
- Search nearby: Find all bus stops within 200 meters of a location
- Geofencing: Check if delivery vehicles enter or exit designated zones
- Routing coverage: Determine service areas and delivery radiuses
- Region lookups: Match addresses to administrative boundaries
- Asset tracking: Monitor equipment locations and movements
- Compliance zones: Verify operations within permitted areas
Spatial columns
Appwrite provides first-class geo types that can be stored as table columns:
- Point: Represents a single geographic coordinate as
[longitude, latitude] - Line: Represents a series of connected geographic coordinates forming a path or route
- Polygon: Represents a closed area defined by a series of coordinates forming a boundary and optional hole punches within that boundary. Polygons must be closed (first and last points are the same), and holes must lie completely inside the boundary, with no overlaps.
Spatial columns that are required can not be added to tables with existing data. Spatials columns that not required can not be indexed.
Spatial index
For optimal performance, create spatial indexes on columns you'll query. Spatial indexes use optimized data structures designed for geographic operations. Spatial indexes are strongly recommended if you plan to query your spatial data in any way.
Create spatial indexes through the Appwrite Console, Server SDK, or CLI.
Query operations
Appwrite supports these geo query operations:
- Distance queries: Find locations within, beyond, or exactly at a specified distance
- Geometric relationships: Check if shapes intersect, overlap, touch, or cross each other
- Boundary queries: Determine if points fall within defined areas
For complete documentation and examples of all geo query operations, see Queries.