You are reading this article because you want to show google maps on your website and we have asked you for an api key.
Why You Need Your Own Google Cloud Account
Google now requires website owners to create and manage their own Google Cloud account in order to use services such as Google Maps. In the past, agencies could provide shared API keys for multiple clients. Google has since changed its policies and now requires each business to control its own API access and billing. This means your website must use an API key generated inside your own Google Cloud account.
Does Google Require Billing Details?
Yes. Google requires a billing account to be connected to Google Cloud in order to activate Google Maps services. However, Google provides a free monthly usage credit of $200. For most websites, including property and business websites, the map usage stays well within this free allowance and typically costs nothing.
What You Need Before Starting
- A Google account (Gmail or business Google account)
- A credit card or payment method for Google Cloud billing
Step 1 – Create a Google Cloud Account
Visit: https://console.cloud.google.com/ Sign in with your Google account and follow the instructions to activate Google Cloud. You will be asked to set up billing during this process.
Step 2 – Create a Project
Inside Google Cloud Console:
- Click "Select Project"
- Click "New Project"
- Enter a name for your project (for example: Your Website Name)
- Click "Create"
Step 3 – Enable Google Maps APIs
In the Google Cloud menu:
- Go to "APIs & Services"
- Select "Library"
Enable the following APIs if required by your website:
- Maps JavaScript API
- Geocoding API
- Places API
Step 4 – Create Your API Key
Go to: APIs & Services → Credentials Then:
- Click "Create Credentials"
- Select "API Key"
Google will generate your API key.
Step 5 – Restrict Your API Key (Important)
For security reasons, your API key should only work on your website. Under "Application Restrictions":
- Select "HTTP referrers"
- Add your website domain (example: https://yourdomain.com/*)
Step 6 – Send the API Key to Us
Once created, simply send us the API key and we will configure it on your website.
Optional: Give Us Access to Your Project
Instead of sending the key, you may add us to your Google Cloud project. Go to: IAM & Admin → IAM Then click:
- Add
- Enter our email address
- Assign the role: Editor
This allows us to configure the API settings without needing your Google login details.
Need Help?
If you need assistance setting up your Google Maps API key, please contact our support team and we will guide you through the process.
