“This page can't load Google Maps correctly.”
Your site loads a Google Map through the Maps JavaScript API, and Google refused the request. The map shows a grey box with this message, and "Do you own this website?", instead of your location. Visitors looking for where you are see nothing useful.
Is your site showing it right now?
The free scan loads your page like a visitor and checks for this message, plus broken links, script errors and phone layout. It also walks your signup, booking or contact form, without sending anything.
Free, no signup. Usually done in about a minute.Why it happens
- No API key, or a key that was deleted or regenerated
- Billing isn't turned on for the Google Cloud project the key belongs to (Google requires it, even within the free allowance)
- The Maps JavaScript API isn't enabled for that project
- The key is restricted to websites, and your domain (or its www version) isn't on the list
How to fix it
Read the exact reason in the browser console
Open the page, press F12, and look at the Console tab. Google names the problem: RefererNotAllowedMapError (domain not allowed), ApiNotActivatedMapError (API not enabled), BillingNotEnabledMapError, InvalidKeyMapError or MissingKeyMapError.
Turn on billing and the API
In the Google Cloud console, open the project the key belongs to, link a billing account, then under APIs & Services enable "Maps JavaScript API".
Allow your domain on the key
Under APIs & Services, Credentials, open the key. In website restrictions, add your domain in both forms, like example.com/* and www.example.com/*.
Put the key where the map uses it
Most themes and map plugins have a field for the API key in their settings. Paste the working key there and save.
Or use the no-key embed
For a simple map of one address, Google Maps' Share, Embed a map option gives an iframe that needs no API key or billing. Replace the theme's map with it.
Questions
Will Google charge me?
Google needs billing turned on, but most small sites stay within the monthly free credit. You can set a budget alert in the Cloud console.
It works for me but not for visitors. Why?
If you're logged in to a Google account with a different key or a cached map, you may not see it. Check from a private window or another device.
Can Page Canary tell me if this comes back?
Yes. Page Canary checks your key pages every day for this message and others like it, confirms it on a second check, and emails you with the fix. One site is free.