A Nebraska city's attempt to fight illegal immigration appears likely to be more of an inconvenience for legal residents than a deterrent to illegal immigrants.

Fremont's newly court-approved ordinance won't have any effect beyond the city limits.

That means two major meatpacking plants and some neighborhoods that have large immigrant populations won't be covered by the requirements.

The rules add red tape for businesses and renters.

Businesses must use the federal E-Verify database to ensure employees are legal.

Potential renters must swear they are legal residents and pay $5 to obtain a renting permit.

But the city won't be able to revoke the permits of applicants found to be illegal immigrants.

Backers say the provisions approved by a federal judge represent progress on the issue.