How Anaheim Handles Immigration Policy: A Practical Guide

Anaheim maintains 243 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with immigration policy. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Anaheim falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Sanctuary Policy Preemption

California SB 54 (TRUST Act) limits state and local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Anaheim Police comply statewide; the city has not adopted a separate sanctuary ordinance.

Key details: State authority: SB 54 / Govt Code 7284. Local ordinance: None separate. ICE detainers: Judicial warrant required. Felony exception: Serious/violent crimes. Effective: January 2018.

Officers violating the TRUST Act may face departmental discipline, civil rights litigation under California Civil Code 52.1, attorney fees, and statutory damages of $25,000 per violation.

E-Verify Mandates

California Labor Code 2814 prohibits cities from mandating E-Verify use by private employers. Anaheim cannot require E-Verify; only federal contractors and certain federal agencies must use the system locally.

Key details: Authority: CA Labor Code 2814. Local mandate: Prohibited. Voluntary use: Permitted. Federal contractors: Must use E-Verify. Form I-9: Always required.

A city ordinance mandating E-Verify would be void and preempted; private employers improperly required to participate may sue for declaratory and injunctive relief plus attorney fees.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Anaheim gives residents more flexibility on e-verify mandates.

The Bottom Line

Anaheim's immigration policy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Anaheim is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Anaheim's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.