Rasterize Features (By Field)

Overview

Converts vector data to raster data and writes values from a selected numeric attribute field to cells covered by the vector features. The coordinate system, resolution, and extent of the output raster are defined by Raster region.

This tool is suitable for converting zones, land classes, management units, or other features with numeric attributes to raster form for raster calculation, reclassification, and statistical analysis.

Method

Rasterization maps vector geometry to a discrete grid and converts feature attributes to cell values. Key factors affecting the result include:

• Field value writing: Values from the selected attribute field are written to covered cells.
• Output grid definition: Coordinate system, cell size, and extent determine the grid layout.
• Overlapping features: If multiple features cover the same cell, the final value may depend on feature order.

Use Cases

• Rasterize zonal attributes: Convert code, class, or indicator fields from polygon zones to a zonal raster.
• Create class or weight rasters: Convert land-use class IDs, weights, or similar fields to rasters for model computation.
• Support raster-based statistics: Convert vector fields to rasters for overlay calculation or conditional constraints.

Parameters

Basic settings (required)

Parameter	Description	Notes
Input vector file	Vector data to rasterize.	Supports common vector formats such as .shp, .geojson, and .gpkg, depending on platform support.
Attribute field	Field whose values are written during rasterization.	Must be a numeric field. Text or other nonnumeric fields may cause rasterization to fail.
Raster region	Grid definition of the output raster.	Sets the output coordinate system, resolution, and extent. If available, a snap raster can be used to align the output grid.
Output raster file	Output raster file path.	.tif is recommended. The output is a GeoTIFF raster.

Steps

1. Start the tool: Open Geoprocessing Toolbox > Data Management Tools > Data Conversion > Vector To Raster, then start Rasterize Features (By Field).
2. Set the input: Select the vector data to rasterize in Input vector file.
3. Select a field: In Attribute field, choose the numeric field to write to the raster.
4. Configure the raster region: Set the output raster Coordinate system, Resolution, and Extent, or align the grid to a snap raster if available.
5. Configure the output: Set the location and file name for Output raster file.
6. Run and inspect the result: Click Run and check progress in Task List. After completion, verify the output spatial reference and cell values.

Notes

• The field must be numeric: If the field is a string, enumeration, or other nonnumeric type, convert or map it to integer codes before rasterization.
• Cell values for overlapping features: If multiple features cover the same cell, the final value may depend on feature order. Dissolve or classify the vector data first when needed.
• Resolution affects detail: Coarse resolution loses boundary detail. Very fine resolution can produce large rasters and affect performance.