Both are completely free. Download QGIS from qgis.org.
Open QGIS. Go to Layer > Add Layer > Add Vector Layer . Source type = "File". Select your DXF file. You will see a list of entities (Point, Line, Polygon, etc.). Select all that apply.
Once you master this workflow, you will never design in a vacuum again. Seeing your parking lot overlaid on actual satellite trees, or your building shadow cast across a real street, changes how you think about site design entirely. Go explore. how to import autocad to google earth
While QGIS can read some DWG files, it prefers DXF. Open your DWG in a free viewer like DWG TrueView (Autodesk) and save it as a DXF.
But here’s the catch: You need a conversion bridge. This guide will walk you through the three most reliable methods to get your CAD data onto the globe. Method 1: The Native AutoCAD Route (Best for Precision) If you have access to AutoCAD (Full Version, not LT) with the Geolocation feature, this is the most accurate method. Both are completely free
If you are a student or hobbyist without a CAD license, . It has a learning curve, but it is powerful and free.
In Google Earth Pro, right-click your imported layer > Properties (or "Get Info"). Go to the Altitude tab. Change the drop-down from "Clamped to ground" to "Relative to ground." This keeps your CAD lines flat but pressed against the terrain surface. For 3D buildings, use "Absolute" and set a base height. Common Pitfalls & Solutions | Problem | Likely Cause | Fix | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Nothing appears | Your CAD objects are in Paper Space, not Model Space. | Move everything to Model Space (use CHSPACE command). | | It lands in the ocean | No geographic coordinate data. | Manually reposition in Google Earth (Right-click > Properties > Move/Resize). | | Lines are invisible | White lines on white snow/clouds. | Change your CAD line color to a dark, solid color (e.g., RGB 0,0,255 blue) before exporting. | | Huge file size | Too many hatch patterns or complex blocks. | Explode complex blocks and remove hatches. Use simple polylines. | Final Verdict If you are a professional, use Method 1 (AutoCAD Geolocation + KMLOUTPUT) . It takes 30 seconds and maintains perfect spatial accuracy. Go to Layer > Add Layer > Add Vector Layer
Still in the Geolocation tab, use "Mark Position" to place a pin. This helps you verify alignment later.