Visitation Rules

Every correctional facility sets its own visitation rules, and these rules can differ significantly from one institution to the next. Generally, visitors must be on an approved visitor list before they can visit. Getting on the list requires submitting a visitor application, which involves a background check in many cases. Approval can take days to several weeks. Facilities typically limit how many people can be on an approved visitor list at one time.

In-person visits usually require a government-issued photo ID, adherence to a dress code, and compliance with security procedures including metal detectors and bag inspections. Facilities often prohibit specific items, such as open-toed shoes, underwire garments, or certain clothing colors that might be confused with facility uniforms. Children are generally permitted to visit but may have additional requirements, such as being accompanied by an approved adult guardian.

Remote video visits have become a common alternative to in-person visits at many facilities. The rules for video visits are managed separately through the facility's contracted video platform and do not follow the same dress code or ID requirements as in-person visits. Remote visits still require the family member to be on an approved contact list. Many families use video visits for regular contact and save in-person visits for special occasions, since in-person visits require more planning and may be limited in frequency.