The INSPIRE Implementing Rules on interoperability of spatial data sets and services (IRs) and Technical Guidelines (Data Specifications) specify common data models, code lists, map layers and additional metadata on the interoperability to be used when exchanging spatial datasets.
Datasets in scope of INSPIRE are ones which come under one or more of the 34 spatial data themes (below) set out in the INSPIRE Directive. Interoperability in INSPIRE means the possibility to combine spatial data and services from different sources across the European Community in a consistent way without involving specific efforts of humans or machines. Interoperability may be achieved by either changing (harmonising) and storing existing data sets or transforming them via services for publication in the INSPIRE infrastructure.
While the Implementing Rules specify what must be implemented at an abstract and generic level, the non-binding Technical Guidelines specify how legal obligations could be implemented, making reference to existing geospatial standards where appropriate. Implementing these Technical Guidelines will maximise the cross-border and cross-thematic interoperability of INSPIRE spatial data sets and services as well as guaranteeing interoperability with other sectors.
Each Annex has a set of milestones for when metadata, data, and network services for datasets are to be available, set out in this roadmap.
ANNEX: 1
| Addresses | Administrative units |
| Cadastral parcels | Coordinate reference systems |
| Geographical grid systems | Geographical names |
| Hydrography | Protected sites |
| Transport networks |