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How to generate a Google API key for your Buildfire app

Create a Google API key to enable your app to connect with Google services like Maps or Sheets.

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Written by Amr Alshareef
Updated over a week ago

Overview

Some Buildfire plugins require a Google API key to access services like Google Maps. This key connects your app to your Google Cloud project and authorizes data access. With a valid API key, your app can:

  • Autofill addresses from Google Maps.

  • Show the user's current location on a map.

  • Display pinned locations using Google Maps.

Required

  • A Google account and access to the Google Cloud Console.

  • Billing must be enabled on your Google Cloud project.

How to generate a Google API key

  1. Go to the Google Cloud Console and sign in.

  2. At the top, click the project dropdown and select an existing project or click New Project to create one.

  3. Name your project and click Create.

  4. In the left menu, go to APIs & Services > Library.

  5. Search for and enable any APIs you plan to use (e.g., Maps JavaScript API, Geocoding API, Google Sheets API).

  6. Once enabled, go to APIs & Services > Credentials.

  7. Click + Create Credentials, then select API key.

  8. Copy the key that appears — this is your API key.

  9. (Optional but recommended) Click Restrict Key to:

    • Limit usage to specific APIs.

    • Restrict usage by HTTP referrers (e.g., your app domain).

  10. Save your key.

Troubleshooting tips

  • API key not working? Check that the correct APIs are enabled in your project.

  • Key shows usage errors: Make sure billing is active and the key is unrestricted or correctly scoped.

  • Feature in app isn’t loading: Confirm the plugin or integration you're using is configured with the API key.

  • Quota exceeded: Review your usage in the Cloud Console and request higher limits.

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