: This file is typically added to your .gitignore to prevent sensitive credentials like API keys or local database URLs from being pushed to public repositories.
A bug occurs only when FEATURE_FLAG_NEW_UI=true . You don't want to commit that flag. You add it to .env.local , test the UI, fix the bug, then delete the line from .env.local . No traces left behind. .env.local
Never, under any circumstances, commit .env.local . Why? : This file is typically added to your
: Always add .env.local to your .gitignore file to prevent accidental leaks of sensitive keys. You add it to
# Example .env.local content DATABASE_URL=postgres://localhost:5432/mydb API_KEY=your_secret_local_key Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard
: Ensure your .gitignore file includes .env.local to prevent accidental uploads to GitHub or Bitbucket. Access in Code : Node.js/Next.js : Access via process.env.API_KEY .