The networks always have to know where you are, in order to provide service to your device. And yes, in the U.S. they’re obligated to provide your location, either approximate or precise, to law enforcement agencies when presented with a proper, signed legal demand. Other countries have their legal requirements, too, I’m sure.
In my case, I don’t care if the phone company, or even law enforcement or the government can discover my location. I only care about protecting myself from tracking by the tech companies that want to build a profile on me without my consent.