How to Fix Google My Maps ‘Anonymous Uploads Not Allowed’ Error?

Why Can’t I Upload Files to Google My Maps? (4 Fixes That Work!)

Google My Maps is a great tool for creating custom maps. But sometimes, it throws a curveball. Many users are stuck with the error: “Anonymous uploads are not allowed.” This issue pops up when trying to upload files like Excel sheets, KML, or CSV data. Even worse, it’s been around for a while with no permanent fix from Google yet.

If you’ve tried re-downloading your files or restarting My Maps and still hit a wall, don’t worry. Below are four simple fixes that could solve the problem.

Solution 1: Upload via Google Drive

Instead of uploading files straight from your computer, try using Google Drive:

1. Save your file to Google Drive first.
2. Open My Maps and import the file directly from Drive.

This extra step might bypass the error.

Solution 2: Open Google Sheets in Another Tab

Here’s an odd trick that works for some users:

1. Open Gmail and click the “Google Apps” icon (grid icon).
2. Launch Google Sheets in a new tab.
3. Switch back to My Maps and try uploading your file again.

You don’t need to do anything in Sheets—just opening it seems to help.

Solution 3: Clear Browser Cookies

Cookies might be messing things up. To clear them:

1. Go to the Google My Maps site.
2. Click the three-dot menu (top-right corner of your browser).
3. Navigate to Cookies & site data > Manage on-device data.
4. Select Delete All and sign back into your Google account.

Heads up: Clearing cookies will log you out of all websites.

Solution 4: Use Microsoft Edge or Another Browser

If nothing else works, switch browsers. Microsoft Edge (or any Chromium-based browser) might handle the upload better than Chrome.

These fixes should help you get past the “Anonymous uploads are not allowed” error on Google My Maps. While it’s annoying that this issue persists, these workarounds can save you time and frustration until Google rolls out an official fix.