The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Protective Services (FPS) have announced that new regulations aimed at protecting federal property will take effect earlier than previously planned. The Regulations Governing Conduct on Federal Property, initially set for implementation on January 1, 2026, will now become effective November 5, 2025. This change comes in response to a recent increase in violence and security threats at DHS facilities.
The updated rules, codified as 6 C.F.R. Part 139, expand FPS charging authority to address violations that occur both on and off federal property if they impact federal sites or personnel. The regulation also modernizes the list of prohibited conduct to include issues such as unauthorized drone use and tampering with digital networks near federal buildings.
Other changes include additional charges for behaviors affecting safety and government operations on federal property, standardized public notices about conduct rules posted at facilities, and a focus on cooperation between federal tenants, security staff, and local law enforcement.
Examples of violations under the new regulations include disorderly conduct; concealing identity while committing a crime; obstructing access to federal property; impeding official duties; making violent threats; tampering with government IT systems; creating hazards; and causing unmanned aircraft to operate from or damage federal property. Violations are classified as Class C misdemeanors punishable by up to 30 days in jail, fines up to $5,000, or both.
FPS has also recommended updated collateral fee schedules so U.S. District Courts can impose fines that reflect the seriousness of these offenses.
“DHS is using every tool possible to protect the lives of our law enforcement as they face a surge in violence and lawlessness at many of our federal facilities. We’ve seen rampant violence against law enforcement including our officers shot at, rammed by vehicles, assaulted and threatened,” Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, we will not tolerate violence perpetuated by Antifa and other domestic extremists who are targeting federal property and law enforcement. Law and order will prevail.”
Recent incidents cited by DHS include a September shooting where an individual with “ANTI-ICE” written on ammunition attacked an ICE field office resulting in two detainee deaths. In July, left-wing extremists ambushed the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas using fireworks as weapons before opening fire on responding police officers.
