Tacoma, WA Immigration Policy: Sanctuary Policy Preemption (2026)

Tacoma Municipal Code § 8.19.045, adopted by Ord. 29105 in May 2026, bars using municipal property, buildings, parks, lots, utility infrastructure, for 'civil immigration enforcement,' defined to include staging, surveillance, and mobilizing personnel or vehicles by ICE, CBP, or other federal agencies. Such use is allowed only with express City Manager (or, for utilities property, Tacoma Public Utilities Director) authorization. The rule doesn't reach lawful judicial warrants or actions to effect a criminal arrest. Enforcement runs through a civil suit for injunctive or declaratory relief by the City Attorney, not a criminal penalty. The City also offers voluntary 'Stand Together Tacoma' signage for private properties.