Statement Regarding Immigration Detention Facilities from the City
of Des Moines, May 2026
The City of Des Moines understands the strong concerns many
community members have expressed regarding immigration detention facilities. We
appreciate residents taking the time to share their views and participate in
the public process.
Detention centers and detention facilities are not permitted
within the City of Des Moines. In March
2026, the City’s Community Development Director issued a formal code
interpretation confirming that these uses are not allowed under the City’s
existing regulations. That interpretation was not appealed and is now final.
Some community members have asked the City to adopt a temporary
moratorium. A moratorium is generally used to pause new applications while an
issue is studied and future regulations are considered. In this case, the
City’s regulations already prohibit detention centers and detention facilities,
so a moratorium would not change the current outcome or add additional
restrictions beyond what is already in place.
The City has also not received any applications or inquiries
related to a detention facility in Des Moines.
The City remains committed to clear, accurate communication and to
ensuring residents have reliable information on issues of significant community
concern.