CAD tip # 4874:

You can define the layer list to switch on/off (the LAYLAY command) either manually as a comma delimited string or you can use the snapshot function which captures the current visibility status of the individual layers and then returns back to the saved status when entering the respective space (model/paper).

You can downlooad the LayLay application on our Download page Download.

from LAYLAY.TXT:

Setup:
Load LayLay.VLX into every AutoCAD document in which you want to switch layers. You can load it automatically using ACAD.LSP/ACADDOC.LSP or with the _APPLOAD command.
Use the LAYLAY command to setup model- and layout-layers to autoswitch on or off when entering the respective modelspace or paperspace (layouts).

Usage:
On every change between the modelspace and a layout in your DWG drawing LAYLAY automatically switches off and on the selected layers. You can define the layer list either manually ("LAYLAY Write") or automatically by a snapshot of current layer status - separately for model/paper ("LAYLAY ").
LayLay can be switched off with the "LAYLAY OFf" command.
Layer list and LayLay status is stored in the DWG file so you don't need to redefine them in subsequent AutoCAD sessions.
Non-existing layers are not created; even the current layer can be switched off.