Penmate Inmate Support Guides
Visitation

How to Visit Facility

Visiting at the Dakota Unit is pretty straightforward once you know the schedule and which type of visit you're setting up.

• 3 min read Based on general AZ policies
How to Visit Facility

For visitation questions at the Dakota Unit, call (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926. General population visitation runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and posted holidays in two time blocks: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. General population inmates can receive visits both weekend days. Non-contact visits work differently. They're held on Tuesdays, by appointment only (subject to availability), so call well in advance to reserve a slot. There's also a special-visit option for certain situations. The Dakota Unit Deputy Warden may approve special visits at other times, but the inmate needs to submit a written request at least 30 days in advance.

Note: Visit length depends on the inmate's phase level. If you're planning travel or coordinating with family, call the facility to ask what phase the inmate is in and how long that allows for visits.

How to Visit Facility

Steps to Follow

  • ✓ Call Dakota Visitation at (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926 to confirm the current rules before you go.
  • ✓ Plan general population visits for Saturdays, Sundays, or posted holidays.
  • ✓ Choose the correct visitation block time for general population: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • ✓ If you need a non-contact visit, request a Tuesday appointment. Call well in advance since scheduling is subject to availability.
  • ✓ If you need a special visit outside regular times, the inmate must submit a written request at least 30 days in advance for possible approval by the Dakota Unit Deputy Warden.

Before you make the trip, call ahead and verify a few details. Confirm the Dakota Unit visitation number is still (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926, and that general population visits are still on Saturdays, Sundays, and posted holidays with the same two blocks (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Ask how long the visit will be for your loved one, since visit length depends on the inmate's phase level. If you're trying to schedule a non-contact visit, find out what Tuesday appointments are available and what "call well in advance" means in practice. How far ahead should you request a slot? Planning a special visit? Ask about the current approval process and how the inmate should submit the written request, since it needs to be turned in at least 30 days ahead for possible Deputy Warden approval. While you have someone on the line, ask about entry requirements like ID, dress code, and check-in procedures. Those details can determine whether you're allowed in that day.

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