What causes ParsingError?

Invalid YAML syntax in a schema.yml or sources.yml file (indentation, special characters, missing quotes). Invalid Jinja2 syntax in a model SQL file. A circular reference in macro definitions. An unknown configuration key in dbt_project.yml. A model file with syntax that is valid Python Jinja but not valid for dbt's parser

How do I fix ParsingError?

Run dbt parse to see the full parsing error message and file location. Validate YAML files using a YAML linter (yamllint or online YAML validators). Check the Jinja2 syntax in the model or macro file indicated by the error. Look for special characters in YAML values that need to be quoted (colons, hashes, brackets). Review recent changes to schema YAML files — most ParsingErrors follow a YAML edit

High severitycompilation

Power BI Refresh Error:
ParsingError

What does this error mean?

dbt could not parse a model, macro, schema YAML, or configuration file. The project structure or syntax is invalid and dbt cannot build the DAG.

Common causes

1Invalid YAML syntax in a schema.yml or sources.yml file (indentation, special characters, missing quotes)
2Invalid Jinja2 syntax in a model SQL file
3A circular reference in macro definitions
4An unknown configuration key in dbt_project.yml
5A model file with syntax that is valid Python Jinja but not valid for dbt's parser

How to fix it

1Run dbt parse to see the full parsing error message and file location
2Validate YAML files using a YAML linter (yamllint or online YAML validators)
3Check the Jinja2 syntax in the model or macro file indicated by the error
4Look for special characters in YAML values that need to be quoted (colons, hashes, brackets)
5Review recent changes to schema YAML files — most ParsingErrors follow a YAML edit

Frequently asked questions

How do I validate my dbt YAML files?

Run dbt parse locally or use yamllint. VS Code with the dbt extension also highlights YAML schema errors in real time.

Can a ParsingError in one file break the whole project?

Yes — dbt parses the entire project before running any models. A single invalid YAML file prevents the whole project from starting.