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Mapbox MCP Server

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Create Buffer Zone

buffer_tool
Read-onlyIdempotent

Create a buffer zone around points, lines, or polygons for proximity analysis and service area mapping. Works offline.

Instructions

Create a buffer zone (polygon) around a point, line, or polygon at a specified distance. Useful for proximity analysis, service areas, or creating zones of influence. Works offline without API calls.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
unitsNoUnit of measurement for distancekilometers
distanceYesBuffer distance
geometryYesGeometry coordinates (Point, LineString, or Polygon)

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
unitsYes
distanceYes
bufferedPolygonYesBuffer polygon as array of rings
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false. The description adds the valuable behavioral detail 'Works offline without API calls,' which goes beyond annotations. No contradiction.

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 sentences with no wasted words. The purpose is stated first, followed by use cases and a key feature. Perfectly front-loaded and efficient.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Given the tool has 3 parameters, an output schema, and annotations, the description covers the essential functionality, use cases, and an important operational detail (offline capability). No gaps identified.

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 description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents parameters well. The description adds context about geometry types (point, line, polygon) but does not provide significant additional meaning beyond the schema.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states the tool creates a buffer zone around point, line, or polygon geometry. It specifies the action and resource, but does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like distance_tool or area_tool.

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?

The description provides clear use cases: 'proximity analysis, service areas, or creating zones of influence.' While it does not mention when not to use or name alternatives, the context is sufficient for an AI agent to understand appropriate applications.

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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