What causes DependencyError?

A ref() points to a model that was renamed or deleted. A source() references a source that is not defined in any sources.yml. A package referenced in packages.yml cannot be found or the version does not exist. A macro is referenced before it is defined in the project. A model in a disabled package is referenced by an enabled model

How do I fix DependencyError?

Run dbt ls to list all models and verify the referenced model exists. Check if the referenced model was recently renamed — update all ref() calls to use the new name. Run dbt deps to install packages and verify packages.yml is correct. Check that the source() arguments match exactly a source defined in sources.yml. Use dbt list --select --output json to see the resolved dependencies

High severitycompilation

Power BI Refresh Error:
DependencyError

What does this error mean?

dbt cannot resolve a dependency between models, macros, or packages. The project's dependency graph has a broken reference that prevents dbt from determining the correct execution order.

Common causes

1A ref() points to a model that was renamed or deleted
2A source() references a source that is not defined in any sources.yml
3A package referenced in packages.yml cannot be found or the version does not exist
4A macro is referenced before it is defined in the project
5A model in a disabled package is referenced by an enabled model

How to fix it

1Run dbt ls to list all models and verify the referenced model exists
2Check if the referenced model was recently renamed — update all ref() calls to use the new name
3Run dbt deps to install packages and verify packages.yml is correct
4Check that the source() arguments match exactly a source defined in sources.yml
5Use dbt list --select <model> --output json to see the resolved dependencies

Frequently asked questions

How do I find all models that ref() a specific model?

Use dbt ls --select +<model_name> to list all models that depend on the specified model.

Can I rename a dbt model without breaking dependents?

Not directly — all downstream ref() calls must be updated. Use dbt ls --select +<old_name> to find all dependents before renaming.