set_project_path · Xcode MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_project_path does on Xcode

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_project_path needs a policy

This tool modifies internal state (the active project context) rather than retrieving data (Read) or permanently destroying data (Destructive). While it changes configuration, the effect is reversible by setting a different project path. It is Write rather than Execute because it is a configuration setter, not a command/script executor.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_project_path' and description 'Sets the active Xcode project' indicate a state-modifying operation that changes the active context without retrieving data or deleting/overwriting existing files.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_project_path Rate-limited

set_project_path 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": {
    "set_project_path": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_project_path_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 Xcode, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_project_path

What does the set_project_path tool do? +

Sets the active Xcode project by specifying the path to its .xcodeproj directory. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Xcode MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on set_project_path? +

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

What risk level is set_project_path? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_project_path? +

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

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

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