Buffering Features in ArcGIS

Buffering is a useful technique in GIS.  It is referred to as a proximity tool in ArcToolbox.  It can be applied to points, polylines, and polygons.  Some valuable uses include: Right-of-ways, Tree diameters, Sex Offender Exclusion Zones, Study Areas, Impervious Surfaces from a Centerline, Evacuation Zone of Weather Events,  etc.

To perform a single distance buffer:

1. Open the Buffer Tool – ArcToolbox >Proximity >Buffer

2. Fill Inputs

• Input Features (Points, Polylines, Polygons)
• Output Feature Class
• Linear Unit (Distance of Buffer) This can also come from a attribute field value.

The remaining entries are optional.

The new output layer from the buffer will be added to the map (circles around red dots).

To perform a multiple distance buffer:

1. Open the Multiple Ring Buffer Tool – ArcToolbox >Proximity >Multiple Ring Buffer

2. Fill Inputs

• Input Features (Points, Polylines, Polygons)
• Output Feature Class
• Enter each buffer distance.

The remaining entries are optional.

The new output layer from the buffer will be added to the map.  Notice that I have used the dissolve option.  This causes the buffer rings to dissolve based up distance.