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Version: v7 / v8

Limit rule groups

Some implementations require a flat, rule-only structure, or need to restrict group creation to specific conditions (such as limiting depth to one level). Several approaches can address these requirements.

Prevent creation of new groups​

The simplest approach is hiding the "+ Group" button entirely. Set the addGroupAction component to null (or () => null) to prevent group creation:

<QueryBuilder
  fields={fields}
  query={query}
  onQueryChange={setQuery}
  controlElements={{
    addGroupAction: null,
  }}
/>

Alternatively, hide the button using CSS with the default ruleGroup-addGroup class:

.ruleGroup-addGroup {
  display: none;
}

Both approaches produce this result:

https://example.com

Conditionally allow new groups​

To allow groups only at the top level (hiding the button in sub-groups), conditionally render the ActionElement based on the level prop:

<QueryBuilder
  fields={fields}
  query={query}
  onQueryChange={setQuery}
  controlElements={{
    addGroupAction: props => (props.level === 0 ? <ActionElement {...props} /> : null),
  }}
/>

The CSS equivalent uses descendant selectors:

.ruleGroup .ruleGroup .ruleGroup-addGroup {
  display: none;
}

Both methods produce this result:

https://example.com

Other methods​

You can also prevent group addition by returning false from the onAddGroup callback.

caution

This approach alone may confuse users since the "+ Group" button appears clickable but produces no result. Consider combining this method with user interface cues or messaging to clarify the behavior.

<QueryBuilder
  fields={fields}
  query={query}
  onQueryChange={setQuery}
  onAddGroup={() => false}
/>