Geoprocessing tools for editing terrain datasets

A set of geoprocessing tools for editing existing terrains is available in the 3D Analyst toolbox. To ensure the toolbox is available, make sure 3D Analyst is installed and have it enabled via the Customize > Extensions dialog box.

In ArcToolbox, locate the 3D Analyst toolset, expand the Data Management toolset, then expand the Terrain Dataset toolset. The image below depicts the nine tools located in the Terrain Dataset toolset that can be used to edit terrain datasets.

Tools used to modify an existing terrain dataset

Geoprocessing tools	Description
Add Feature Class To Terrain	Adds one or more feature classes to a terrain dataset.
Add Terrain Pyramid Level	Adds one or more pyramid levels to an existing terrain dataset.
Append Terrain Points	Appends points to a point feature referenced by a terrain dataset.
Build Terrain	Performs tasks required for analyzing and displaying a terrain dataset.
Change Terrain Reference Scale	Changes the reference scale associated with a terrain pyramid level.
Change Terrain Resolution Bounds	Changes the pyramid levels at which a feature class will be enforced for a given terrain dataset.
Create Terrain	Creates a new terrain dataset.
Delete Terrain Points	Deletes points within a specified area of interest from one or more features that participate in a terrain dataset.
Remove Feature Class From Terrain	Removes reference to a feature class participating in a terrain dataset.
Remove Terrain Pyramid Level	Removes a pyramid level from a terrain dataset.
Replace Terrain Points	Replaces points referenced by a terrain dataset with points from a specified feature class.

Terrain dataset editing tools in the Terrain Dataset toolset

Geoprocessing tools can edit properties of a terrain as well as embedded multipoint feature classes. Editable properties include pyramid definitions and information about participating feature classes. Changes other than those specifically associated with pyramid reference scales require a rebuild of the terrain. You can make multiple edits followed by one call to Build Terrain. This is more efficient than performing a build after every edit operation.