Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey issued an executive order on Wednesday, blocking federal, state, and local agencies from using city-owned parking lots, ramps, garages, or vacant parcels to stage civil immigration enforcement operations.
The order comes as the city responds to credible reports that the Trump administration is preparing targeted immigration actions against Somali residents in the Twin Cities. Community leaders had urged the mayor to ensure that Minneapolis does not become a staging ground for such operations, citing Chicago’s experience before the city adopted similar restrictions.
“Minneapolis is — and will remain — a city that stands up for our residents,” Frey said in a written statement. “City parking lots need to be used for City purposes, which do not include civil immigration enforcement. There’s no place in our Minneapolis for fear-based tactics or operations that undermine community trust.”
The directive prohibits outside agencies from using any city-controlled space as a staging area, processing location, or operations base for civil immigration enforcement. It also mandates a series of internal steps to reinforce the policy.
City departments ordered to identify and label restricted property
Under the order, city departments must compile a complete list of city-owned or controlled parking facilities and vacant lots that could be repurposed for staging operations. Once identified, staff must install signage clearly stating that such use is prohibited.
The required sign includes the following language:
“This property is owned and/or controlled by the City of Minneapolis. The City of Minneapolis does not authorize this property to be used, and it may not be used, by any federal, state, or local government entity or personnel as a staging area, processing location, operations base, or any other similar use for civil immigration enforcement operations.”
Departments must also immediately report any potential violations of the order and provide an optional signage template for private property owners who wish to declare non-public areas off-limits for civil immigration enforcement activities.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the order supports the city’s broader public safety goals.
“Our work as a police department depends on the community, which includes immigrant communities,” O’Hara said. “Everyone must feel safe seeking help, reporting crimes, and working with our officers.”
A longstanding ‘welcoming city’ policy
City leaders emphasized that Minneapolis has long maintained a strict separation between local operations and federal civil immigration enforcement. The city provides information on legal rights and resources for immigrant residents, while also limiting municipal involvement in federal civil immigration activities.
Officials noted that Minneapolis cannot prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel from operating within the city. However, local departments, including the Minneapolis Police Department, will respond if illegal or dangerous conduct occurs and will work to de-escalate situations and ensure community safety.
Frey’s office stated that the order builds on Minneapolis’ commitment to remain a welcoming city and to protect the rights and safety of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
