San Diego, January 29, 2026
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved an ordinance that restricts federal law enforcement access to county facilities without a judicial warrant. This measure is designed to protect the civil liberties of county residents, ensuring county resources are not misused for immigration enforcement. Key provisions include requirements for judicial warrants, multilingual rights notices, enforcement of civil rights protections, and data privacy safeguards. The ordinance will take effect within 30 days and aims to inform residents of their rights while enhancing protections against unauthorized enforcement actions.
San Diego County Board of Supervisors Approves Ordinance Restricting Federal Law Enforcement Access to County Facilities
San Diego, CA – On January 28, 2026, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an ordinance that limits federal law enforcement access to county facilities without a judicial warrant. This decision aims to safeguard the civil liberties of county residents and ensure that county resources are not utilized for immigration enforcement actions.
Key Provisions of the Ordinance
- Judicial Warrants Required: Federal agents must present a judicial warrant to access non-public areas of county properties.
- Multilingual Rights Notices: Signs in multiple languages will be displayed in county buildings to inform visitors of their rights.
- Enforcement of Civil Rights Protections: County contractors, grantees, and lessees are mandated to uphold civil rights protections.
- Data Privacy Safeguards: Measures are implemented to prevent the misuse of sensitive information.
Background and Context
This ordinance aligns with similar actions taken by other California counties. For instance, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on January 13, 2026, to draft an ordinance creating “ICE-free zones” on county property, prohibiting federal immigration enforcement agents from using county-owned property for civil immigration enforcement without a permit. Similarly, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors advanced a law on January 14, 2026, that would prohibit federal agents from accessing non-public areas at county facilities unless they have a warrant or court order. These measures reflect a growing trend among local governments to assert control over their properties and protect residents’ rights amid ongoing debates over immigration enforcement practices.
Implications for San Diego Residents
The approval of this ordinance is expected to enhance the protection of civil liberties within San Diego County. By requiring judicial warrants for federal access to non-public areas of county facilities, the ordinance aims to prevent unauthorized immigration enforcement actions and ensure that county resources are not used for such purposes. The implementation of multilingual signage and data privacy safeguards further demonstrates the county’s commitment to upholding the rights and privacy of its diverse population.
Next Steps
The ordinance will take effect 30 days after its approval. County officials will oversee its implementation, including the installation of multilingual signage in county buildings and the enforcement of civil rights protections among county contractors and partners. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights and the provisions of the ordinance to ensure they are informed and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does the new ordinance entail?
The ordinance requires federal agents to present a judicial warrant to access non-public areas of county facilities, mandates multilingual signage to inform visitors of their rights, and enforces civil rights protections among county contractors and grantees.
Why was this ordinance implemented?
The ordinance was implemented to protect the civil liberties of San Diego County residents and to ensure that county resources are not used for immigration enforcement actions without proper legal authorization.
When will the ordinance take effect?
The ordinance will take effect 30 days after its approval on January 28, 2026.
How will the ordinance impact county residents?
The ordinance aims to enhance the protection of civil liberties by preventing unauthorized immigration enforcement actions and ensuring that county resources are not used for such purposes. It also provides residents with clear information about their rights through multilingual signage.
What are the next steps following the ordinance’s approval?
County officials will oversee the implementation of the ordinance, including the installation of multilingual signage in county buildings and the enforcement of civil rights protections among county contractors and partners. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights and the provisions of the ordinance.
Key Features of the Ordinance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Judicial Warrants Required | Federal agents must present a judicial warrant to access non-public areas of county facilities. |
| Multilingual Rights Notices | Signs in multiple languages will be displayed in county buildings to inform visitors of their rights. |
| Enforcement of Civil Rights Protections | County contractors, grantees, and lessees are mandated to uphold civil rights protections. |
| Data Privacy Safeguards | Measures are implemented to prevent the misuse of sensitive information. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego Court Ruling Enhances Animal Welfare at Rodeos
San Diego Officials Condemn Fatal ICE Shooting in Minneapolis
San Diego Sheriff Continues Transfers to ICE Amid Restrictions
Significant Events Impact San Diego in January
New Bill Seeks to Regulate E-Bike Speeds in California
Del Mar Advocates for Local Control in Housing Decisions
Del Mar Enacts Ban on Styrofoam and Noncompostable Utensils
San Diego’s Economic Landscape Faces Key Developments
San Diego’s Minimum Wage to Increase to $17.75 Per Hour
San Diego City Council Disbands Cost-of-Living Committee
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.