Map Scale Bar Builder
Builds a graphic scale bar for a given map ratio and exports it as downloadable SVG.
Scale and distance
Choose which value you control. The other is calculated from L = 1000 × G ÷ S.
- Ground span
- 1000 m
- Major interval
- 200 m
- Calibrated bar
- 40 mm
- Exported artwork
- 52.01 × 15.87 mm
Preview
Preview enlarged to fit; not physical screen size.Insert at 52.0105 mm × 15.8738 mm with the aspect ratio locked. The calibrated span between the end ticks is 40 mm.
PNG at 300 DPI is 614 × 187 px. Raster applications may ignore resolution metadata — insert at 52.01 mm wide. SVG and PDF are preferred for print.
Before you rely on this: First-pass guide only. Verify safety-critical or regulated work against the relevant standards, your project requirements and a qualified professional.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the map scale (1:X), the total ground length and the number of divisions.
- Choose metres or kilometres.
- Read the printed-length note and download the bar scale as an SVG to drop onto your map.
How it works
A bar (graphic) scale shows ground distance directly and stays correct even if the map is resized — unlike a ratio scale.
The tool draws an alternating black/white bar divided into your chosen number of parts, labelled with the exact ground distances, and tells you how long it is when printed to scale (ground length in mm ÷ scale).
Worked example
1:25,000, 1000 m, 5 divisions. Draws a 0–1000 m bar in 200 m divisions; at 1:25,000 it prints 40 mm long, so it scales correctly on the sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Why include a bar scale as well as the ratio?
If the map is photocopied, printed 'fit to page' or zoomed, the ratio (1:25,000) becomes wrong but the bar scale resizes with the image and stays correct.
Is this official course material?
No. It is free study support mapped to surveying course levels — not official North Metropolitan TAFE content or advice. Always follow your lecturer and the official assessment brief, and check your own working.
Related tools
- Map Scale from Known Distance Checker
- Basic Map Layout Checker
- Map Bearing Romer Tool
- Survey Formula Sheet Builder
- Grid Reference Practice Tool
- Right Triangle Survey Problem Generator
Explore more in Surveying, Coordinates, GIS & CAD.
Cite this tool
Zerdly. (2026). Map Scale Bar Builder. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/map-scale-bar-builder/
Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.
Designed to run locally in your browser. Tool inputs are not intentionally stored by Zerdly unless stated otherwise.