How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Butte County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Butte County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Butte County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Butte County Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Butte County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Butte County Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Butte County Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Butte County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Butte County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Butte County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Butte County Jail
   33 County Center Dr
   Oroville, CA 95965
   Phone: (530) 538-7471

5. What are the visiting hours at Butte County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Butte County Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (530) 538-7471 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Butte County Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Butte County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Butte County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Butte County Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Butte County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Butte County Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Butte County Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Butte County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Butte County Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth opportunities within Butte County Jail emphasize skill-building and positive behavioral change for those incarcerated. The facility typically structures its offerings around preparing individuals for successful community reintegration while maintaining a secure environment. These development-focused initiatives may furnish participants with practical abilities and educational foundations that support long-term stability.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to help participants complete their high school equivalency. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities typically encompass hands-on instruction in carpentry and construction skills. The facility may also offer forklift operation certification, providing those incarcerated with marketable job skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release.

Support services frequently focus on rehabilitation programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. These therapeutic offerings often include substance abuse counseling and anger management courses delivered through structured group sessions. Furthermore, victim awareness programs may help participants understand the impact of their actions while developing empathy and accountability. The facility typically emphasizes safety protocols throughout all programming to ensure a secure learning environment for both participants and staff.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections remain a cornerstone of daily experience for those incarcerated at Butte County Jail, with various communication options helping maintain vital relationships with loved ones on the outside. The facility currently operates on a structured schedule that continues to emphasize both security protocols and opportunities for social interaction among residents. Daily routines typically begin early with headcounts and meal service, followed by work assignments and programming activities that furnish stability throughout the day.

Housing arrangements generally consist of dormitory-style units and individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Those incarcerated typically share common areas where social interactions occur during designated periods. Meals are usually served in central dining areas, providing opportunities for community interaction among residents. Furthermore, the facility may offer recreational activities such as television viewing, card games, and limited exercise opportunities in designated areas when security conditions permit.

Work assignments often include kitchen duties, janitorial services, and facility maintenance tasks that help residents contribute to daily operations while developing routine and responsibility. Although programming options may be limited compared to longer-term facilities, those incarcerated can typically access educational materials and may participate in group activities. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits with family members and friends, while phone access and written correspondence help maintain crucial outside connections that support rehabilitation and reentry preparation.