Facebook Ads: Permissions Error When Connecting
If you see a permissions error when trying to connect your Facebook Ads account to Datadrew, it usually means the Facebook user account you are using does not have the required access level on the ad account.
The Problem
When connecting Facebook Ads, Datadrew needs to read your ad account data (campaigns, ad sets, ads, and performance metrics). Facebook requires that the user authorizing the connection has admin access to the ad account in Meta Business Manager.
Common error messages include:
"You do not have permission to access this ad account"
"Insufficient permissions"
"The user does not have the required role on the ad account"
How to Fix It
Step 1: Verify Your Role in Meta Business Manager
Navigate to Accounts > Ad Accounts.
Select the ad account you want to connect to Datadrew.
Click People and find your name in the list.
Your role should show as Admin. If it shows "Analyst" or "Advertiser," you need to be upgraded to Admin.
Step 2: Get Admin Access (if needed)
If you do not have admin access:
Ask an existing admin of the ad account to upgrade your role to Admin in Meta Business Manager.
Alternatively, ask the admin to connect Datadrew on your behalf.
Step 3: Reconnect in Datadrew
Go to Settings > Integrations in Datadrew.
Click Connect (or Reconnect) next to Facebook Ads.
In the Facebook authorization popup, make sure you are logged into the correct Facebook account — the one with admin access.
When prompted, select the ad account(s) you want to connect.
Grant all requested permissions.
Other Common Issues
Multiple Facebook accounts: Make sure you are logged into the correct Facebook account in your browser. Try using an incognito window if you have multiple accounts.
Business Manager vs. personal ad accounts: If your ad account is managed through a Business Manager, the authorization must come from a user who has access via that Business Manager — not just through a personal Facebook profile.
Two-factor authentication: Ensure you can complete any 2FA prompts during the authorization flow.
Still getting errors? Contact us at support@datadrew.io with a screenshot of the error and your ad account ID, and we will help you troubleshoot.
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Need help?
If you have questions or run into issues, reach out to us at support@datadrew.io or use the in-app chat. We're happy to help.