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Query Layer

query_layer
Read-onlyIdempotent

Query an ArcGIS Feature Service / Map Service layer by its url (from search_datasets). SQL-like where, comma-separated out_fields, order_by, limit, offset. Returns attribute rows (and geometry). Use where="1=1" + out_fields="*" to sample.

Example tool call

This call uses example arguments supplied in the tool’s input schema.

{
  "id": 1,
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "tools/call",
  "params": {
    "arguments": {
      "url": "https://services.arcgisonline.com/arcgis/rest/services/PalmBeachCounty/FeatureServer/0",
      "limit": 50,
      "where": "1=1",
      "out_fields": "*"
    },
    "name": "query_layer"
  }
}

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYesFeature/Map Service layer url ending in /FeatureServer/<n> or /MapServer/<n>.
limitNoMax features (1-2000, default 50).
whereNoSQL where clause, e.g. "STATE = 'CA' AND YEAR >= 2020". Default "1=1".
offsetNoPagination offset.
order_byNoe.g. "POP DESC".
out_fieldsNoComma-separated field names, or "*" for all (default).

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed1 schema field changed
    • addedInput schema / examples
      Added value: +[
      +  {
      +    "limit": 50,
      +    "out_fields": "*",
      +    "url": "https://services.arcgisonline.com/arcgis/rest/services/PalmBeachCounty/FeatureServer/0",
      +    "where": "1=1"
      +  },
      +  {
      +    "limit": 100,
      +    "order_by": "ADDRESS ASC",
      +    "out_fields": "PARCEL_ID,ADDRESS,ZONING",
      +    "url": "https://services.arcgisonline.com/arcgis/rest/services/PalmBeachCounty/FeatureServer/2",
      +    "where": "ZONING = 'RES'"
      +  }
      +]
  2. First observed

TDQS

A4.2/5.0
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, openWorldHint, idempotentHint, and destructiveHint false. The description adds that it 'Returns attribute rows (and geometry)', which goes beyond the structured data by clarifying the return format. No contradictions with annotations.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Two concise sentences: first summarizes purpose and key parameters, second offers a concrete usage tip. No wordiness, information is front-loaded and every sentence earns its place.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a query tool with 6 parameters and no output schema, the description covers the core functionality well, including return of rows/geometry and a sampling suggestion. It could mention error behavior or pagination quirks, but these are partially covered by the schema's limit/offset descriptions.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. Description adds minimal param semantics: 'SQL-like' for where, 'comma-separated' for out_fields, but these nuances are already hinted in schema examples. The description doesn't significantly enhance parameter understanding beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states 'Query an ArcGIS Feature Service / Map Service layer by its url', identifying the specific verb, resource, and connection to search_datasets. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like layer_info by focusing on data querying rather than metadata.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Gives clear context: use when you have a URL from search_datasets and want to retrieve data. Includes a useful sampling tip ('where="1=1" + out_fields="*"') but lacks explicit exclusions or alternative tool mentions.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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