Authentication

Map Zena supports both anonymous requests and API-key requests. Use a key when you exceed the free daily allowance.

Authentication

You can call Map Zena without a key for up to 500 requests/day. For higher usage, register an account, add credit, and authenticate with an API key.

Anonymous mode (no key)

http
GET https://api.mapzena.com/v1/geocode?q=Berlin

Anonymous mode is free and capped at 500 requests/day. Once the free allowance is exhausted, requests return anonymous_quota_exceeded.

Query parameter

http
GET https://api.mapzena.com/v1/geocode?q=Berlin&key=mz_live_xxxxxxxxx

Header

http
GET https://api.mapzena.com/v1/geocode?q=Berlin
X-Api-Key: mz_live_xxxxxxxxx

Key format

Keys are opaque tokens and should not be parsed client-side. Always store keys in server-side environment configuration.

Security guidance

  • Do not embed keys in frontend bundles or mobile binaries.
  • Use a server-side proxy for browser applications.
  • Rotate keys immediately if exposed.
  • Scope separate keys per project and environment.

Related docs