create_layer_group · QGIS MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What create_layer_group does on QGIS MCP

AI agents use create_layer_group 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 create_layer_group needs a policy

This tool creates a new layer group, which is a reversible modification to the project's layer organization. It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data, or have financial implications. While it modifies the QGIS project state, the action is non-destructive and can be undone.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'create_layer_group' and description 'Create a new layer group in the layer tree' directly indicate creation of a new organizational structure within the QGIS project.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

create_layer_group Rate-limited

create_layer_group 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": {
    "create_layer_group": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "create_layer_group_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 create_layer_group

What does the create_layer_group tool do? +

Create a new layer group in the layer tree. 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 create_layer_group? +

Register the QGIS MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for create_layer_group: 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 create_layer_group? +

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

Can I rate-limit create_layer_group? +

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

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

create_layer_group 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.