Lisa Gardner, City Council Communications Director, lgardner@spokanecity.org
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 9:52 a.m.
During Monday night’s Legislative Session, the Spokane City Council voted to approve the “Safe and Welcome in Spokane” ordinance, which expands protections against warrantless searches by immigration enforcement in designated non-public areas. These areas include public rights of way that are not generally accessible to the public or where access is temporarily restricted, such as during a permitted special event requiring explicit authorization. This initiative directly addresses safety concerns raised by residents and employees regarding security, accessibility, and the protection of city assets.
"In passing the 'Safe and Welcome in Spokane' ordinance, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a community where everyone feels safe and respected,” said Council Member Paul Dillon. “This measure not only protects the rights of our residents but also ensures that non-public areas remain accessible without the fear of unwarranted immigration enforcement. It's about standing together as a city and fostering an environment of trust and safety for all, and most importantly, reinforces that in Spokane, we all belong."
In 2018, City Council passed Ordinance C35681, codified in Section 12.05.050 of the Spokane Municipal Code, which established rules to prevent warrantless entry by federal immigration officials onto City property. However, Ordinance C35681 did not apply to public rights of way or cover ticketed events held on public rights of way. Federal immigration officials have increased efforts to identify, detain, and arrest local individuals they believe are unlawfully present in the country.
After the original ordinance failed to pass as an emergency, it was amended and reintroduced amid increased enforcement by federal immigration authorities locally, especially following recent civil unrest and protests, most notably on June 11, 2025.
For more information regarding the Safe and Welcome Spokane ordinance, please review the FAQs on our Items of Interest page.
