The City of Chicago has implemented an executive order establishing “ICE-free zones,” restricting federal immigration authorities from using city-owned properties for enforcement activities. The policy applies to schools, libraries, parks, and other municipal spaces, with private establishments encouraged to voluntarily participate by displaying signage declaring their premises off-limits to civil immigration enforcement without a valid warrant.

The measure prohibits the use of City-owned parking lots, garages, and vacant lots as staging areas, processing locations, or operations bases for federal immigration activities. Signage will be provided to private property owners to assert that no law enforcement official may enter for immigration enforcement purposes. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the order’s goal of safeguarding residents’ safety, dignity, and constitutional rights, stating it reinforces Chicago’s commitment to being a “welcoming city.”

The policy follows reports of federal agents using city properties as staging sites for immigration operations, which the mayor described as undermining community trust. While the order does not interfere with lawful warrants or criminal investigations, it explicitly limits civil immigration enforcement on public and participating private spaces. City departments are required to identify vulnerable properties, post signage, and report unauthorized enforcement attempts.

The executive order takes effect immediately, with officials monitoring federal activities for potential escalation.