When we evaluate urban conservation inteventions and their adoption by the local people, it is seen that the studies carried out in some cities are more successful than in similar ones. Interna- tional documents define urban conservation as a joint responsibil- ity of different actors rather than the task of a specific institution. The responsibility requires consciousness and awareness at every level of society. The roles of local actors and institutions in conser- vation activities are essential because of their direct relationship within the historical environment. In this context, the article de- scribes the term of local conservation capacity that will be defined as a factor in the success and effective results of urban conserva- tion process. Local conservation capacity is defined as the whole of the interrelationship network between local authorities and the local community, together with their competence, experience, know-how, and dedication to urban conservation. Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa were selected as case study areas in order to elaborate local conservation capacity. In both cities, some sort of urban con- servation works had been completed since 2004, so a comparative evaluation is probable to be made for a period of approximately 20 years. In this context, first of all, based on the results of the research completed in 2011 it is emphasized that the local conser- vation capacity in Gaziantep is higher than in Şanlıurfa, especially in terms of ability to working together. Afterward, an evaluation is made based on differences in local conservation capacity, changes in the region and cities in the last 10 years.