add_raster_layer · QGIS MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What add_raster_layer does on QGIS MCP

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why add_raster_layer needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies the QGIS project by adding a raster layer, which is a reversible operation (layers can be removed). It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data, or move money. The severity is medium because adding unexpected layers could alter analysis results or consume system resources, but the operation is reversible and the impact is bounded to the project scope.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'add_raster_layer' and description 'Add a raster layer (GeoTIFF, etc.) to the project' indicate creation/modification of project state by adding a new layer resource.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

add_raster_layer Rate-limited

add_raster_layer 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": {
    "add_raster_layer": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "add_raster_layer_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 QGIS MCP, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about add_raster_layer

What does the add_raster_layer tool do? +

Add a raster layer (GeoTIFF, etc.) to the project. It is categorised as a Write tool in the QGIS MCP MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on add_raster_layer? +

Register the QGIS MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for add_raster_layer: 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 QGIS MCP. Nothing to install.

What risk level is add_raster_layer? +

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

Can I rate-limit add_raster_layer? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the add_raster_layer 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 add_raster_layer completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for add_raster_layer. 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 add_raster_layer? +

add_raster_layer is provided by the QGIS MCP server (nkarasiak/qgis-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.