How to Enable Developer Mode in Frappe Framework (v15)

Introduction: Why Developer Mode Matters in Frappe

Developer Mode is the foundation of all customization and extension work in Frappe.
Without it, core tools like DocType editing, Custom Scripts, and app-level changes remain locked.
In Frappe Framework v15, Developer Mode is intentionally disabled by default to protect production systems from accidental changes.

What Is Developer Mode in Frappe?

Developer Mode is a configuration setting that enables advanced development features inside Frappe and ERPNext.

When enabled, it allows you to:

• Create and edit DocTypes
• Export fixtures and JSON files
• Modify print formats and web forms
• Build and test custom apps

Who Should Enable Developer Mode?

Developer Mode is intended for:

• Frappe / ERPNext Developers
• ERPNext Consultants
• System Integrators
• Technical Administrators

It should never be enabled on a live production system unless required and controlled.

Technical Prerequisites

Before enabling Developer Mode, ensure:

• You have bench access to the server
• You are working on Frappe Framework v15
• You have System Manager privileges

How to Enable Developer Mode in Frappe (Recommended Method)

Method 1: Enable Developer Mode via site_config.json

This is the official and recommended approach in Frappe v15.

Step 1: Navigate to Your Site Directory

cd frappe-bench/sites/your-site-name

Step 2: Open site_config.json

nano site_config.json

Step 3: Add or Update Developer Mode Setting

{
"developer_mode": 1
}

If the file already contains settings, simply add:

"developer_mode": 1

Step 4: Restart Bench

bench restart

Developer Mode is now active for this site.

How to Verify Developer Mode Is Enabled

Once enabled, you will notice:

• Customize Form visible in DocTypes
• Ability to create new DocTypes
• JSON files generated on save
• App-level metadata being exported

You can also confirm via System Settings in the UI.

Alternative Method: Enable via Bench Command (Not Preferred)

Some setups allow enabling developer mode using:

bench set-config -g developer_mode 1

This enables developer mode globally, which is not recommended for multi-site setups.

What Changes When Developer Mode Is Enabled?

Common Use Cases for Developer Mode

Developer Mode is required for:

• Building custom ERPNext apps
• Creating industry-specific modules
• Writing Custom Scripts and Hooks
• Modifying Print Formats
• Developing REST API extensions

Best Practices for Using Developer Mode

• Enable only in development or staging
• Keep it disabled in production
• Commit exported JSON files to version control
• Use separate sites for dev and prod

Security Considerations

Leaving Developer Mode enabled on production systems can:

• Allow unintended schema changes
• Expose internal configuration options
• Increase risk of data corruption

Always disable Developer Mode before go-live.

Troubleshooting Developer Mode Issues

Developer Options Not Visible?

• Restart bench
• Clear browser cache
• Confirm developer_mode: 1 exists in site_config.json

Changes Not Exporting to Files?

• Ensure you are working inside a custom app
• Confirm file permissions
• Verify app is installed on the site

Industry Relevance

Developer Mode is critical for:

• Manufacturing ERP customizations
• Real estate ERP workflows
• Healthcare and compliance-heavy systems
• Industry-specific ERPNext solutions

Summary: Developer Mode Is the Gateway to Customization

In Frappe Framework v15, Developer Mode unlocks the full power of ERPNext customization and app development.
When used correctly, it enables structured, version-controlled, and scalable development—without compromising system stability.