How do I run a map wipe on Project Zomboid?
Last reviewed July 2026
A map wipe removes all map data (explored chunks, structures, loot, player bases) and restarts the world fresh. Player character data is stored separately and can be preserved if you want players to keep their characters.
Stop the server. In File Manager, navigate to .cache/Saves/Multiplayer/<your server name>/ (the default name is servertest unless you changed it; ignore any Zomboid folder at the server root, it is unused). Delete the map chunk files: these are the numbered folders and .map files inside this directory.
Character data lives in a separate file, not inside that folder: .cache/db/<your server name>.db. Leave this alone if you want characters to survive the wipe. If you also want to wipe characters, delete this file as well.
Start the server. A new world generates fresh on the next run. Players who connect will spawn as if the server is brand new.
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- How do backups and world saves work for a Project Zomboid server?
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