TileServer GL

Self-Hosted

Open-source map tile server for self-hosting vector and raster maps

Overview

TileServer GL is an open-source map tile server enabling self-hosting of vector (Mapbox Vector Tiles, MBTiles) and raster maps. It supports formats like GeoJSON, Shapefiles, and raster images, integrating seamlessly with Leaflet/OpenLayers. Deploy via Docker, Node.js, or pre-built binaries for Windows/macOS/Linux. Customize styles using Mapbox Style Spec to match project designs. Ideal for privacy-focused apps, offline use, or projects needing full control over map data without third-party APIs—lightweight and scalable for small to large deployments.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  tileserver_gl:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: tileserver-gl
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Serve vector and raster maps from a self-hosted server
Supports MBTiles, GeoJSON, and Shapefile data formats
Easy deployment via Docker, Node.js, or pre-built binaries

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is TileServer GL hard to install?

No—TileServer GL is easy to install using Docker (with a single command), Node.js/npm, or pre-built binaries for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Official docs provide step-by-step guides for each deployment method.

? Is it a good alternative to Mapbox Tiles API?

Yes—TileServer GL supports the same Mapbox Style Specification and MBTiles format as Mapbox, making it a great alternative for self-hosting. It avoids API costs and privacy concerns by keeping map data under your control.

? Is it completely free?

Yes—TileServer GL is open-source under the MIT License, so it’s completely free to use, modify, and distribute. You only need to supply your own map data (e.g., OpenStreetMap-derived MBTiles), which can be obtained for free or purchased.

Top Alternatives

Mapbox Tiles API Search Google

Google Maps Platform Compare

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Maps and Global Positioning System (GPS)

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no reliance on third-party map APIs)
⊕ Customizable map styles using Mapbox Style Specification
⊕ Compatible with popular frontends like Leaflet and OpenLayers

Cons

⊖ Requires own map data (e.g., MBTiles) which is not included
⊖ Basic knowledge of map formats needed for initial setup
⊖ Limited enterprise-level support compared to proprietary solutions