The St. Paul City Council has unanimously approved a package of ordinances designed to increase law-enforcement transparency and restrict the use of city property for federal immigration operations.

In a 6–0 vote, council members adopted Ordinance 26-5, which prohibits law enforcement from staging immigration operations on non-public city-owned property — including parking lots, ramps and facilities — unless required by a judicial warrant or other legal obligation. Officials said the measure responds to resident concerns about federal agents using local spaces.

The council also passed Ordinance 26-6, requiring officers operating in St. Paul to display visible identification on the outermost layer of their uniforms while performing official duties. Supporters say the rule strengthens accountability and helps residents distinguish authorized officers.

A third measure, Ordinance 26-7, generally requires law enforcement to operate without face coverings except in limited circumstances such as undercover work or necessary protective gear. Council members cited community reports that masked federal agents have heightened fear and reduced public trust.

Together, the ordinances represent one of St. Paul’s most significant recent policy responses to heightened federal immigration enforcement across the Twin Cities. City leaders say the goal is to protect residents’ access to public spaces while reinforcing transparency standards for agencies operating within city limits.

The measures will take effect 30 days after mayoral approval and publication.

Learn more at stpaul.gov/city-council.