The NLS Finland opens topographics datasets

The Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry issued a decree on 21 December 2011 on the fees of the National Land Survey of Finland (NLS). The decree prescribes that the NLS will open its topographic datasets to the public on 1 May 2012 to be used freely and free of charge.

"From 1 of May 2012, digital maps portraying the terrain and topography can be used free of charge even for commercial purposes. It is important for us that our high-quality datasets are widely used," says Antti Kosonen, Director of the Information Service Centre at the NLS.

Basic maps and laser scanning data for free

The most important data to be opened is the Topographic Database that includes information on roads, addresses, buildings and waterways in Finland.

Paper maps remain chargeable

A fee will still be charged for other datasets produced by the NLS, such as data in the land information system, printed maps and map printouts, after May 2012.

Find more information in the press release.