distribute_elements · Excalidraw MCP Server MCP

WHAT IT DOES

What distribute_elements does on Excalidraw MCP Server

AI agents use distribute_elements to create or update resources in Excalidraw MCP Server — usually the action step of a workflow, after the agent has gathered context. Every call changes real data in your Excalidraw MCP Server environment.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why distribute_elements needs a policy

This tool modifies diagram structure by repositioning elements, making it a Write operation (reversible data modification). It does not delete (not Destructive), execute external commands (not Execute), or involve financial transactions (not Financial). Severity is medium because misuse could disrupt diagram layouts and waste time, but changes are easily undone via undo functionality typical in design tools.

From the tool's definition Tool performs 'distribute_elements' which modifies the positions/layout of diagram elements on the canvas. Related tools like 'align_elements', 'create_element', and 'delete_element' confirm this is a CRUD operation that alters canvas state.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

distribute_elements Rate-limited

distribute_elements stays usable, but capped — an agent stuck in a loop can't make hundreds of changes a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "distribute_elements": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "distribute_elements_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Excalidraw MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about distribute_elements

What does the distribute_elements tool do? +

Distribute elements evenly. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Excalidraw MCP Server MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on distribute_elements? +

Register the Excalidraw MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for distribute_elements: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Excalidraw MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is distribute_elements? +

distribute_elements is a Write tool with medium risk. Write tools should be rate-limited to prevent accidental bulk modifications.

Can I rate-limit distribute_elements? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the distribute_elements rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.

How do I block distribute_elements completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for distribute_elements. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.

What MCP server provides distribute_elements? +

distribute_elements is provided by the Excalidraw MCP Server MCP server (kakacoding1/mcp_excalidraw). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.