How to Download Free LiDAR Data from Norway Høydedata

Learn how to access and download free high-resolution LiDAR point cloud data, DTMs, and DSMs for Norway through Kartverket’s Høydedata portal. Complete coverage of Norwegian terrain with data up to 10 points per square meter.

Høydedata is Norway’s official elevation data portal operated by Kartverket (the Norwegian Mapping Authority). It provides free access to high-quality LiDAR data, digital terrain models, and digital surface models covering all of Norway.

The interface features:

• Meny (Menu) – Access export options and settings
• Søk (Search) – Search for locations by name or coordinates
• Vis I Kart (Show in Map) – Toggle data layer visibility
• Map tools – Zoom, draw selection areas, and view terrain profiles

You can search by:

• Place name – City, municipality, or landmark (e.g., “Oslo”, “Bergen”)
• Address – Street address or location
• Coordinates – UTM or geographic coordinates

The search results show available Prosjekter (Projects) – individual LiDAR survey datasets with their year and point density (e.g., “Oslo 10pkt 2024” = Oslo, 10 points/m², 2024).

The menu also provides access to:

• Logg inn – Log in for additional features
• Kontakt oss – Contact information
• Del – Share your current map view
• Tips og triks – Tips and tricks for using the portal

Note: No account is required for basic downloads.

Export Type:

• Lokal eksport – Download specific project data for your selected area
• Landsdekkende – Access nationwide datasets

Data Source:

• Prosjekt – Individual LiDAR survey projects
• Nasjonal Høydemodell – National height model (1m resolution DTM)

Area Selection:
Use Gjeldende kartutsnitt (current map view) or draw a custom polygon using the drawing tools.

• Punktsky – Point cloud data (LAZ format)
• DTM – Digital Terrain Model (ground only)
• DOM – Digital Surface Model (including objects)
• DTM+DOM – Both terrain and surface models

Expand Avansert (Advanced) for additional options:

• File format (LAZ, LAS)
• Coordinate system (UTM zones)
• Clipping options

Click Klargjør eksport (Prepare export) to generate your download.

Check Project Density

Project names indicate point density (e.g., “2pkt” = 2 pts/m², “10pkt” = 10 pts/m²). Higher density provides more detail but larger file sizes.

Use LAZ Format

LAZ files are 5-10x smaller than LAS with no data loss. Most modern software supports LAZ directly.

Use Nasjonal Høydemodell

For nationwide consistent coverage, use the National Height Model. It’s preprocessed, seamless, and perfect for large-area analysis.

Select Small Areas First

Start with small test areas to verify data quality and format compatibility before downloading large datasets.