// MCP TOOL REFERENCE

build_project

Builds the active Xcode project using the specified configuration and scheme.

Part of the Xcode MCP server. Enforce policies on this tool with Intercept, the open-source MCP proxy.

// WHEN AI AGENTS USE THIS TOOL

AI agents invoke build_project to trigger processes or run actions in Xcode. Execute operations can have side effects beyond the immediate call -- triggering builds, sending notifications, or starting workflows. Rate limits and argument validation are essential to prevent runaway execution.

// WHY ENFORCE A POLICY ON BUILD_PROJECT

build_project can trigger processes with real-world consequences. An uncontrolled agent might start dozens of builds, send mass notifications, or kick off expensive compute jobs. Intercept enforces rate limits and validates arguments to keep execution within safe bounds.

// RECOMMENDED POLICY

Execute tools trigger processes. Rate-limit and validate arguments to prevent unintended side effects.

xcode.yaml

tools:
  build_project:
    rules:
      - action: allow
        rate_limit:
          max: 10
          window: 60
        validate:
          required_args: true

See the full Xcode policy for all 18 tools.

// DETAILS

Tool Name build_project

Category Execute

MCP Server Xcode MCP Server

Risk Level High

// MORE XCODE TOOLS

Execute compile_asset_catalog Execute run_lldb Execute run_tests Execute run_xcrun Write boot_simulator Write set_project_path Write set_projects_base_dir Write swift_package_update

View all 18 tools →

// WHAT CAN GO WRONG

Agents calling execute-class tools like build_project have been implicated in these attack patterns. Read the full case and prevention policy for each:

Browse the full MCP Attack Database →

// OTHER EXECUTE TOOLS ACROSS MCP SERVERS

Other tools in the Execute risk category across the catalogue. The same policy patterns (rate-limit, validate) apply to each.

Atv build_stake_tx Atv build_unstake_tx Acdp start_local Pentagonal pentagonal_audit Pentagonal pentagonal_compile ACR — Agent Composition Records getting_started

// IN CONTEXT OF HIGH RISK

build_project is one of the high-risk operations in Xcode. For the full severity-focused view — only the high-risk tools with their recommended policies — see the breakdown for this server, or browse all high-risk tools across every MCP server.

// RELATED READING

// FAQ

What does the build_project tool do? +

Builds the active Xcode project using the specified configuration and scheme.. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Xcode MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on build_project? +

Add a rule in your Intercept YAML policy under the tools section for build_project. You can allow, deny, rate-limit, or validate arguments. Then run Intercept as a proxy in front of the Xcode MCP server.

What risk level is build_project? +

build_project is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.

Can I rate-limit build_project? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the build_project rule in your Intercept 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 build_project completely? +

Set action: deny in the Intercept policy for build_project. 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 build_project? +

build_project is provided by the Xcode MCP server (xcode-mcp-server). Intercept sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.

build_project

Let agents act without letting them run wild.