flc_update_definition · ArcGIS MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What flc_update_definition does on ArcGIS MCP

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why flc_update_definition needs a policy

The name indicates an update operation on feature layer configuration (definition likely refers to layer schema, fields, or settings). This is a Write operation because it modifies data/configuration reversibly, not a Destructive delete. However, confidence is moderate because the description is empty, making interpretation dependent on naming convention.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'flc_update_definition' suggests modification of a feature layer definition; 'update' is a reversible write operation on schema/configuration of a feature layer resource.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

flc_update_definition Rate-limited

flc_update_definition 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": {
    "flc_update_definition": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "flc_update_definition_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 ArcGIS MCP, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about flc_update_definition

What does the flc_update_definition tool do? +

flc_update_definition. It is categorised as a Write tool in the ArcGIS 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 flc_update_definition? +

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

What risk level is flc_update_definition? +

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

Can I rate-limit flc_update_definition? +

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

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

flc_update_definition is provided by the ArcGIS MCP server (renemorenow/arcgis-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.