Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an executive order that prohibits federal immigration agents from using Chicago’s public property—such as parks, schools, and parking lots—for enforcement operations.
Under the new rule, city-owned spaces may no longer serve as staging areas, processing locations, or operations bases for ICE unless agents present valid warrants. The order also allows private businesses to opt in voluntarily to join the “ICE-free zone” network.
Johnson framed the measure as a protection of civil liberties, arguing it limits federal overreach and defends Chicago’s immigrant communities. He pledged legal action if the federal government violates the order.
Federal law enforcement officials have expressed concerns that the restrictions could hamper operations and force agents to carry out enforcement activities in more exposed or publicly visible environments.