25-092 Prohibited Use of Facial Coverings During Law Enforcement Operations

The San Francisco Police Department has earned the trust of our diverse communities through transparent and unbiased policing. As we patrol our districts, walk our beats, attend community meetings, and engage with residents in countless other ways, we are acutely aware of concerns regarding masked federal agents.

To avoid confusion, to differentiate SFPD enforcement operations from federal immigration operations, and maintain our high level of community trust, San Francisco police officers are now prohibited from wearing facial coverings for the purpose of concealing their identities during enforcement actions.

As a reminder, SFPD complies with S.F. Administrative Codes12H and 12I, where City agencies and employees are generally prohibited from assisting in the enforcement of federal immigration laws.

This policy does not prevent nor is it intended to restrict members from utilizing masks or other facial coverings for reasonable and lawful purposes, such as:

• Undercover assignments authorized by an OIC or Commanding Officer.
• Preventing the transmission of airborne diseases.
• Protecting against exposure to smoke or during a state of emergency related to wildfires.
• Gear used by Tactical Team members necessary to protect their eyes, ears, and/or airways from harm in furtherance of their official duties.
• Protective gear issued to officers such as gas masks, rebreathers, or bomb tech suits.
• Safety helmets and equipment issued to motorcycle, dirt bike, and horse mounted units.

/s/
PAUL YEP
Interim Chief of Police

Per DN 23-152, all sworn & non-sworn members shall electronically acknowledge this Department document in PowerDMS within (30) thirty calendar days of issuance. Members whose duties are relevant to this document shall be held responsible for compliance. Any questions regarding this policy should be sent to [email protected] who will provide additional information.