SQL Server: Save Not Permitted Dialog Box [Field Notes]

Problem:

In a new install of SQL Server 2008, when attempting to save changes to a table in a new database, I occasionally get the following error:

Saving changes is not permitted. The changes you have made require the following tables to be dropped and re-created. You have either made changes to a table that can’t be re-created or enabled the option Prevent saving changes that require the table to be recreated.

Solution

Per this excellent article on MSDN help, take the following steps to rid yourself of this error:

• Tools > Options
• Expand the Designers Section
• Click the Table and Database Designers section
• Uncheck the box labeled Prevent saving changes that require table re-creation.

Caveat

Don’t do this on a production database. Just don’t do it. I only needed this for a quick temporary database, or when working in design mode. Otherwise, this option should always be enabled.