maps_distance_matrix
Calculate distances and times between points
Part of the Google Maps MCP server. Enforce policies on this tool with Intercept, the open-source MCP proxy.
WHEN AI AGENTS USE THIS TOOL
AI agents call maps_distance_matrix to retrieve information from Google Maps without modifying any data. This is common in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows where the agent needs context before taking action. Because read operations don't change state, they are generally safe to allow without restrictions — but you may still want rate limits to control API costs.
WHY ENFORCE A POLICY ON MAPS_DISTANCE_MATRIX
Even though maps_distance_matrix only reads data, uncontrolled read access can leak sensitive information or rack up API costs. An agent caught in a retry loop could make thousands of calls per minute. A rate limit gives you a safety net without blocking legitimate use.
RECOMMENDED POLICY
Read-only tools are safe to allow by default. No rate limit needed unless you want to control costs.
tools:
maps_distance_matrix:
rules:
- action: allowSee the full Google Maps policy for all 7 tools.
DETAILS
MORE GOOGLE MAPS TOOLS
maps_geocode Read maps_reverse_geocode Read maps_search_places Read maps_place_details Read maps_elevation Read maps_directions Read SIMILAR READ TOOLS ON OTHER SERVERS
list_bases Airtable list_tables Airtable list_records Airtable get_record Airtable search_records Airtable search Amplitude RELATED READING
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the maps_distance_matrix tool do?
Calculate distances and times between points. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Google Maps MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
How do I enforce a policy on maps_distance_matrix?
Add a rule in your Intercept YAML policy under the tools section for maps_distance_matrix. You can allow, deny, rate-limit, or validate arguments. Then run Intercept as a proxy in front of the Google Maps MCP server.
What risk level is maps_distance_matrix?
maps_distance_matrix is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Can I rate-limit maps_distance_matrix?
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the maps_distance_matrix rule in your Intercept policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.
How do I block maps_distance_matrix completely?
Set action: deny in the Intercept policy for maps_distance_matrix. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.
What MCP server provides maps_distance_matrix?
maps_distance_matrix is provided by the Google Maps MCP server (@modelcontextprotocol/server-google-maps). Intercept sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
ENFORCE POLICIES ON GOOGLE MAPS
Open source. One binary. Zero dependencies.