MBTiles Vector (MVT tiles in SQLite)

MBTiles Vector is the same single SQLite file as a regular MBTiles, but the tile table holds vector tiles instead of images: feature geometry together with attributes, compressed and split across zoom levels. Besides the name, bounds and zoom range, the metadata table records the layer list and their fields — that is how a reader learns what exactly can be styled in the file.

There is exactly one difference from the raster container, and it is decisive: the map inside is not drawn. Colours, line widths, which labels to show and from which zoom — all of that is set on your side and changed as often as you like, without ordering a new export. Every ordered layer stays a separate named layer, so features stay clickable and carry their properties.

I build the pyramid over the chosen area and record the range that was actually built. If you did not pick the depth yourself, I match it to the area and data density and say so in the response; a depth you picked is never touched — if it is beyond reach for that area I refuse honestly instead of handing over a truncated file. Vector tiles are built from the features themselves, so very large and very dense areas are closed for them: regular MBTiles, PNG or GeoJSON serve those.