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Bug

The Extract_Changes method in ArcGIS API for Python fails to return any changes.

Last Published: July 23, 2020 ArcGIS API for Python
Bug ID Number BUG-000132126
SubmittedJuly 8, 2020
Last ModifiedJune 29, 2025
Applies toArcGIS API for Python
Version found1.8.1
Operating SystemWindows OS
Operating System Version2019 64 Bit
Version Fixed1.8.3
StatusFixed

Workaround

It seems to be an issue with the Python method not actually returning anything, despite the changes being identified correctly.

  1. Save a copy of the file C:\path\to\conda\envs\arcgispro-py3-clone\Lib\site-packages\arcgis\features\layer.py
  2. Open up the original file for editing with IDLE in ArcGIS Pro.
  3. Go to Line 2241 of the layer.py file, which is where the extract_changes method comes from.
  4. Instead of "return None", replace it with "return res".
  5. Save the .py file as "layer".
  6. Restart your IDE, and run the exact same code. The changes are now returned as desired.

Alternatively, use the extract_changes ArcGIS REST API method instead: https://developers.arcgis.com/rest/services-reference/extract-changes-feature-service-.htm

Steps to Reproduce

Bug ID: BUG-000132126

Software:

  • ArcGIS API for Python

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