California has long been recognized as one of the most immigrant-friendly states in the U.S., with many local governments adopting “sanctuary” policies designed to protect noncitizens from unnecessary federal immigration enforcement.
But while “sanctuary” is a widely used term, its legal meaning and protections vary greatly between counties and cities. For immigrants — especially those living in or near Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and the Central Valley — understanding how these policies work is critical to protecting your rights.
At Calderon & Gonzalez, P.C., our California immigration attorneys help clients navigate not just federal immigration law, but also the state and local protections available where they live.
What Are Sanctuary Policies?
“Sanctuary policies” refer to laws, ordinances, or local practices that limit how much state and local law enforcement can cooperate with federal immigration agencies such as ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) or CBP (Customs and Border Protection).
These policies don’t make anyone “immune” from deportation — but they reduce the risk of being turned over to federal authorities during interactions with local police, schools, or public services.
California’s sanctuary framework is anchored by several key laws, including:
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The California Values Act (SB 54) — limits cooperation between local police and ICE.
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The TRUTH Act (AB 2792) — requires transparency when ICE seeks to interview someone in local custody.
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The TRUST Act (AB 4) — restricts when local jails can honor ICE detainers.
These laws make California one of the most protective states in the country for immigrant residents.
Which Counties and Cities in California Have Sanctuary Policies
As of late 2025, nearly all major California jurisdictions have adopted some form of sanctuary policy, but the level of protection can differ by region.
🏙️ Sanctuary Counties and Cities
The following areas are known for strong sanctuary commitments:
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Los Angeles County & City of Los Angeles — Among the most protective. The LAPD does not cooperate with ICE on civil immigration enforcement and will not hold individuals for ICE detainers.
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San Francisco & Alameda Counties — Early leaders in sanctuary policy; city employees are prohibited from using resources to assist federal immigration enforcement.
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Santa Clara County (San Jose area) — Maintains one of the strictest limits on information-sharing with ICE.
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Santa Cruz, Sonoma, Marin, and San Mateo Counties — Adopted county resolutions supporting immigrant protections.
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Sacramento County and City of Sacramento — Follow state sanctuary rules and maintain immigrant resource programs.
🚨 More Limited or Conditional Sanctuary Jurisdictions
Some counties, especially in the Central Valley and parts of Southern California, enforce sanctuary laws more cautiously:
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Fresno, Kern, and Tulare Counties — Have complied with state law (SB 54) but may still share certain information with ICE, particularly in criminal contexts.
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Orange County — While the state law applies, county law enforcement has been more open to ICE cooperation than neighboring Los Angeles.
Differences Among Sanctuary Protections
Sanctuary policies can vary across four key areas:
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Detainer Practices
Whether a local jail will honor ICE “detainer” requests (holding someone beyond their release date). -
Information Sharing
Whether local agencies share data (such as release dates or addresses) with ICE. -
Access to Facilities
Whether ICE agents can enter local jails or courthouses without a warrant. -
Public Service Protections
Policies at schools, hospitals, and other “sensitive locations” that limit ICE enforcement.
For example, Los Angeles County refuses ICE access to jails without judicial warrants, while Kern County may still allow limited ICE interviews under certain conditions. These differences make legal guidance essential for immigrants moving between counties.
The Limits of Sanctuary Policies: Where Federal Law Still Controls
It’s important to understand that sanctuary policies do not override federal immigration law.
The federal government retains authority over:
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Deportation proceedings and immigration court jurisdiction
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Visa, green card, and citizenship decisions
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Immigration detentions and removals
This means that while California’s sanctuary laws can limit cooperation with ICE, they cannot prevent deportation if an individual is already in federal custody or has an active removal order.
Sanctuary policies buy time and provide safeguards, but they are not absolute protection. Immigrants must continue to maintain lawful status where possible and seek legal advice if they encounter ICE or DHS officers.
What Immigrants Can Do in Less-Protective Jurisdictions
If you live in a California county with limited sanctuary practices, here’s how you can still protect yourself and your family:
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Know Your Rights
You have the right to remain silent, refuse entry without a warrant, and contact an attorney before speaking to immigration officers. -
Create a Family Safety Plan
Have emergency contacts, child care plans, and legal documents ready in case of unexpected detention. -
Consult an Immigration Attorney
An experienced lawyer can advise you on how to minimize exposure to immigration enforcement, even in less-protective counties. -
Avoid Legal Missteps
Small criminal infractions can trigger immigration consequences in cooperative jurisdictions. Seek legal counsel before pleading to any charge. -
Stay Informed About Policy Changes
Sanctuary laws evolve. Counties may strengthen or weaken protections depending on political shifts — especially after elections.
How Calderon & Gonzalez, P.C. Can Help
At Calderon & Gonzalez, P.C., we provide trusted legal guidance to immigrants and families across California.
Our experienced attorneys help clients:
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Understand how local sanctuary laws affect their immigration status.
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Prepare legal and safety plans for families in mixed-status households.
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Respond to ICE encounters or detainers in accordance with California law.
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File immigration petitions, green card applications, and deportation defenses.
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Connect with immigrant advocacy resources in their local area.
We proudly serve clients throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, the Central Valley, and the Bay Area — offering bilingual services in English and Spanish.
Key Takeaway: Sanctuary Policies Offer Protection, But Legal Support Is Essential
California remains a national leader in protecting immigrant communities, but sanctuary policies are not a shield against federal enforcement. Understanding local laws — and acting early — can make a life-changing difference.
If you or a loved one has concerns about ICE contact, detainers, or immigration status, our team at Calderon & Gonzalez, P.C. is here to help you stay informed and protected.