Python geocoder REQUEST DENIED even with API key?

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05-09-2024

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Python Geocoder "REQUEST_DENIED" Despite API Key: Troubleshooting and Solutions

Are you facing the frustrating "REQUEST_DENIED" error with Python's Geocoder library even after providing your Google Maps API key? You're not alone. This error can be tricky to solve, but by understanding the common causes and following the steps below, you'll be able to geocode addresses successfully.

Understanding the Issue

The "REQUEST_DENIED" error usually indicates that your Google Maps API key isn't properly configured or authorized to make requests. This can stem from several factors, including:

• Missing or incorrect API key: Ensure you've accurately entered your API key within the geocoder.google() function. Double-check for typos and any extra spaces.
• API key restrictions: Your API key might be restricted to certain domains, IP addresses, or services. This restriction could prevent your application from accessing the Geocoding API.
• Insufficient API usage: The free tier of the Google Maps API has limitations on the number of requests you can make. If you exceed the limit, your requests will be denied.
• Unpaid API usage: If you're using the API beyond the free tier and haven't provided payment information, you may be blocked.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Verify API key accuracy: Double-check that your API key is accurately entered within the geocoder.google() function and that there are no typos or extraneous characters.

2. Review API key restrictions:

   • Navigate to the Google Cloud Console: https://console.cloud.google.com/apis
   • Access your Google Maps Platform project and locate the API key you're using.
   • Check the API restrictions section. Make sure your application's domain or IP address is allowed.
   • If necessary, update the restrictions to allow your application to make requests.

3. Check API usage limits:

   • In the Google Cloud Console, view the API Usage section of your project.
   • Examine the number of requests made and compare it to your allotted usage.
   • Consider upgrading your plan if you're exceeding the free tier limit.

4. Ensure payment information:

   • If you've exceeded the free tier and haven't provided payment information, your requests will be denied.
   • Navigate to the Billing section in the Google Cloud Console and verify your payment details.

5. Re-enable the API:

   • If you recently disabled the Google Maps API, you'll need to re-enable it within the Google Cloud Console.
   • Go to the "Google Maps Platform" section and enable the "Geocoding API" and any other related APIs you require.

Additional Tips:

• Code Example (with API key):

  import geocoder
  
  # Replace 'YOUR_API_KEY' with your actual Google Maps API key
  g = geocoder.google('Mountain View, CA', key='YOUR_API_KEY')
  
  if g.ok:
      print(g.json)
  else:
      print(g.error)
  

• Alternative geocoding services: If you continue to encounter issues, consider using alternative geocoding services like Nominatim (https://nominatim.org/) or Mapbox (https://www.mapbox.com/) which offer free tiers with usage limitations.

Remember: Always use your API key responsibly and within the terms of service. Avoid making excessive requests to prevent your account from being blocked.

Credits: This article utilizes information from the following Stack Overflow question: https://stackoverflow.com/questions/46138103/python-geocoder-request-denied-even-with-api-key