San Diego Sues Federal Agencies Over Razor Wire Fencing on City Land

The city argues the fence damages sensitive habitats and trespasses on city property.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:55pm

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The city of San Diego is suing the federal government, including the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense, for building razor wire fencing on city land near the Mexican border. The city argues the fence has caused "irreparable harm" to protected plant and wildlife habitats and is blocking the city's access to the site, jeopardizing conservation programs.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing tensions between local and federal authorities over the use of federal resources on city-owned land, particularly in areas near the border. The case raises questions about property rights, environmental protections, and the limits of federal power.

The details

According to the lawsuit, U.S. Marines illegally entered city land in Marron Valley, east of Otay Mountain, and built fences in December. The city is now asking the court to halt any more fence construction and declare the city's right to ownership and use of the land.

  • The lawsuit was filed with the federal Southern District Court on January 5, 2026.
  • The fencing was built by U.S. Marines in December 2025.

The players

City of San Diego

The local government of San Diego, California, which is suing the federal government over the construction of razor wire fencing on city-owned land.

Department of Homeland Security

A federal agency named in the lawsuit for its involvement in the construction of the razor wire fencing.

Department of Defense

A federal agency named in the lawsuit for its involvement in the construction of the razor wire fencing.

Kristi Noem

The Homeland Security Secretary named in the lawsuit.

Pete Hegseth

The Defense Secretary named in the lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“The City of San Diego will not allow federal agencies to disregard the law and damage city property. We are taking decisive action to protect sensitive habitats, uphold environmental commitments, and ensure that the rights and resources of our community are respected.”

— Heather Ferbert, City Attorney (sfgate.com)

What’s next

The Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security have not yet filed responses to the lawsuit. A federal judge will decide whether to halt further fence construction and determine the city's ownership rights over the land.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local and federal authorities over the use of federal resources on city-owned land, particularly in areas near the border. It raises important questions about property rights, environmental protections, and the limits of federal power.