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Run PocketBase Locally with FlyEnv

PocketBase is a compact Go backend with an embedded SQLite database and can be exposed through a local proxy. FlyEnv manages its runtime and local URL.

Local project stack

Services FlyEnv can manage around PocketBase

About PocketBase

PocketBase is a compact backend application that bundles an embedded SQLite database, auth, REST APIs, realtime subscriptions, file storage, and an admin UI. Its deployment model favors one executable and a local data directory instead of a separately operated database server for typical projects.

A local PocketBase workflow starts the executable with its `pb_data` directory and tests collections, API rules, hooks, migrations, and realtime clients together. Go is needed for source-based extensions or custom builds, while a reverse proxy and HTTPS are optional when browser origin or OAuth callback testing requires them.

Core capabilities

  • Embedded SQLite
  • Collection API rules
  • Authentication
  • Realtime subscriptions
  • File storage
  • JavaScript and Go hooks

Common use cases

  • Small product backends
  • Prototype APIs
  • Realtime administrative tools
  • Self-contained internal applications

PocketBase keeps most local state in one service

Its embedded data store removes the need for a separate SQL server in many projects, though client integrations can still require a stable local origin.

PocketBase executable and pb_data
Run the backend and preserve embedded SQLite data and file storage locally.
Migration and hook workflow
Keep collection changes in `pb_migrations` and test JavaScript or Go extension behavior against local data.
Optional HTTPS proxy
Useful for OAuth providers, secure cookies, or browser clients that require an HTTPS callback URL.

Project resources

For installation commands, supported versions, and project-specific configuration, refer to the official PocketBase 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
GoRuns or builds the PocketBase executable.
SQLiteStores application data in the embedded database.
NginxCaddyMay proxy a local backend domain.

How FlyEnv helps

  • Keep the backend isolated

    Run the selected PocketBase instance per project.

  • Use a local HTTPS URL

    Test auth and browser clients securely.

  • Avoid unnecessary services

    Use the embedded database when it meets the project needs.

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. 1Download or build PocketBase according to its documentation.
  2. 2Select the required Go runtime when building from source.
  3. 3Start the PocketBase service.
  4. 4Configure a local proxy and HTTPS when client testing needs it.

Ready to run PocketBase locally?

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

Download FlyEnv

Have questions using FlyEnv?