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KICAD DRC

KiCad "Via is not connected or connected on only one layer"

KiCad design rule check (PCB) message: Via is not connected or connected on only one layer (via_dangling in kicad-cli reports).

What it means

A via should join copper on at least two layers. KiCad warns when a via connects to nothing, or to copper on only one layer, because it is then a hole that does no electrical work. Delete leftovers; for intentional vias such as stitching or thermal vias, make sure they sit inside a zone of their net on both layers.

Common causes

  • Vias left behind after rerouting.
  • Stitching vias placed outside the pour, or in a pour that was later cut back.
  • A via assigned no net.

How to fix it

  1. Delete unused vias, or run Edit → Cleanup Tracks & Vias.
  2. Give stitching vias the zone's net and refill zones so both layers connect.

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Checked against KiCad 10's source and documentation. Last reviewed 2026-11-07.

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