tldr: See this article for an explanation of S2 cells: https://pokemongohub.net/post/article/comprehensive-guide-s2-cells-pokemon-go/
[Updated July 6, 2026]
Although the Pokemon Go in-game prompts suggest that you submit a new “Pokestop,” you actually submit a new *Wayspot* to the database. (The Web Submit form reads “wayspot.”) An accepted Wayspot can only become a Pokestop/gym if it is alone in a level 17 S2 cell. Staff have acknowledged there is an additional step after acceptance for inclusion in game, but do not acknowledge the community observation about S2 cells.
Eligible Wayspots are added to Pokemon Go in a sync that happens once a day - usually. If it is less than 48 hours since it was accepted, it could just be that it has not synced in yet, even if you see the “Wayspot used in other games” message. If sync gets skipped or delayed, which can happen for various reasons, eligible wayspots will be added the next time it does occur.
Wayspots that are not eligible to be Pokestops or gyms still have the potential to be used as Power Spots. It appears that there is a 22m distance requirement from any Pokestop or gym for it to be added to the potential Power Spot pool, and it seems there is a limit of two active Power Spots per L14 S2 cell, the same size used to determine gyms. Sync to add new Power Spots has most frequently been observed on the 4th of the month if it is going to happen. It is not on a daily basis.
The GPS coordinates where you pinned the Wayspot will be after the photos in the acknowledgement email you received when you submitted the nomination, but the pin may have been moved in voting. If you have questions about whether your nomination is in an occupied L17 S2 cell, it is easier to check with this information.
There are other reasons a Wayspot may not be used in Pokemon Go, but this is the most common. For example, there could also be a request from a property owner to block game locations in that area. Or a temporary game location could prevent a submitted one from being used. But the most common answer to wheresmypokestop is explained by the S2 cell algorithms.
Also, I try to conclude any mention of S2 cells with a caution:
Never submit anything away from where it actually exists to put it in an empty cell!
*Mod edit to update 