SQLCODE -204 is returned when Db2 cannot resolve a referenced table, view, alias, sequence, or index in the current schema path.
SQLCODE -204 (SQLSTATE 42704) means Db2 cannot find the referenced object. Verify the schema, qualify the name, or create the object to resolve the error.
SQLCODE -204, SQLSTATE 42704: <object-name> IS AN UNDEFINED NAME
Db2 raises SQLCODE -204, SQLSTATE 42704 when a SQL statement references a table, view, alias, index, sequence, or trigger name that the database cannot resolve in the active schema path.
The error halts statement execution because Db2 must locate every referenced object to build an access plan.
Fixing it quickly keeps applications stable and prevents cascading failures.
Most occurrences stem from an incorrect or missing schema qualifier, typographical mistakes in object names, or using the wrong database connection where the object does not exist.
The error can also appear after deployment scripts run out of order, leaving dependent objects uncreated, or when privileges hide objects from the current authorization ID.
First, confirm the object exists by querying SYSIBM.SYSTABLES or related catalog views.
If it exists under a different schema, qualify the reference or change CURRENT SCHEMA.
If the object is missing, run the appropriate CREATE statement or restore it from backup.
Grant SELECT or EXECUTE privileges if authorization masks the object.
Application fails after migrating to a new environment—set CURRENT SCHEMA to the correct owner or rebuild objects.
Stored procedure breaks because a table was renamed—update procedure source or create an alias pointing to the new name.
Enforce naming conventions and always schema-qualify object references in production code.
Automate deployments with ordered scripts and add unit tests that validate catalog presence.
IDE tools like Galaxy provide context-aware autocomplete and live catalog lookup, reducing typos and incorrect schema references.
SQLCODE -204 often appears with SQLCODE -551 (insufficient privilege) and SQLCODE -440 (routine not found). Each requires validating object existence, privileges, and naming.
The object exists, but under a different schema than the one in the current path.
Mistyped table, view, or alias name causes Db2 to search for a non-existent identifier.
CREATE statement failed or scripts executed out of order, leaving the object absent.
The current user lacks privileges, so the catalog hides the object, triggering -204.
Application connects to the wrong database or subsystem where the object is not present.
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Yes, if the table is truly missing. Otherwise, qualify the reference to the existing object.
Yes. CURRENT PATH controls schema resolution for routines and can expose or hide objects.
Objects owned by different schemas may not be restored, or privileges were not reapplied.
Galaxy’s catalog-aware autocomplete shows only valid objects, reducing typos and schema mistakes.
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