Skip to content
← All solutions
Payload CMS logo

CMS & Websites solution

Run Payload CMS Locally with FlyEnv

Payload CMS projects use Node.js, MongoDB or another configured database, optional Redis, and a local proxy. FlyEnv manages the surrounding local services.

Local project stack

Services FlyEnv can manage around Payload CMS

About Payload CMS

Payload CMS is a TypeScript-first headless CMS and application framework. Collections, fields, hooks, access control, a generated admin panel, uploads, and REST or GraphQL APIs are defined in application code rather than assembled through a separate CMS configuration layer.

A Payload project normally uses Node.js with a database adapter selected in its configuration. Local work often includes schema changes, admin access, upload storage, and custom server code; Redis, object storage, or email services are optional integrations rather than framework requirements.

Core capabilities

  • Code-defined Collections
  • Admin Panel
  • Access Control
  • Hooks
  • REST & GraphQL
  • Upload Collections

Common use cases

  • Headless content APIs
  • Custom editorial applications
  • Content-backed product sites
  • TypeScript application backends
  • CMS extensions with custom access rules

Payload development starts from its TypeScript configuration

The selected database adapter and upload strategy define most of the supporting local environment.

Node.js and package manager
Run the Payload server, TypeScript tooling, and project scripts.
Configured database adapter
MongoDB, PostgreSQL, SQLite, or another supported adapter should match the project configuration and migrations.
Admin URL and media storage
A stable local URL supports admin and auth testing; uploads need the configured local or external storage adapter.
External services when integrated
Redis, SMTP, and object storage are optional and should be included only for configured plugins or application features.

Project resources

For installation commands, supported versions, and project-specific configuration, refer to the official Payload CMS documentation.

Typical local stack

The exact services depend on the project, its release, and its local configuration. This is a common local setup, not a fixed requirement.

ComponentTypical role
Node.jsRuns Payload and project tooling.
MongoDBPostgreSQLStores CMS and application data.
RedisMay support caching or queues.
NginxCaddyMay serve a local CMS domain.

How FlyEnv helps

  • Match Node.js support

    Use the runtime required by the Payload release.

  • Run the selected database

    Keep CMS data services local.

  • Use a secure local URL

    Configure HTTPS for admin and frontend testing.

Set up the local environment

Project installation stays with the upstream documentation. FlyEnv manages the runtimes, databases, web servers, and supporting services around it.

  1. 1Create or install the project according to Payload documentation.
  2. 2Select the required Node.js runtime.
  3. 3Start the configured database and optional Redis.
  4. 4Configure a local domain and HTTPS when useful.

Ready to run Payload CMS locally?

Use FlyEnv to manage the runtimes, databases, web servers, and services around your local Payload CMS environment.

Download FlyEnv

Have questions using FlyEnv?