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 Chisago County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Chisago 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 Chisago County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Chisago 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 Chisago County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Chisago County Jail
   15230 Per Rd
   Center City, MN 55012
   Phone: (651) 257-2931

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

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

   Visiting hours at Chisago 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 (651) 257-2931 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 Chisago 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 Chisago County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Chisago 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 Chisago County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Chisago 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 Chisago 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 Chisago 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 Chisago 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

While specific program details are not extensively outlined on the facility’s website, Minnesota county jails typically may offer educational services such as GED preparation and basic literacy programs to help individuals work toward academic goals during their incarceration. The facility may also provide access to substance abuse counseling and mental health services, which are often essential components of rehabilitation efforts in correctional settings. Additionally, inmates may have opportunities to participate in work programs or vocational training that can help develop job skills for successful reintegration into the community upon release.

The jail’s commitment to professional standards and constitutional operations suggests that programming efforts likely focus on preparing individuals for successful community reentry. Services may include life skills classes, anger management programs, and religious services to address various aspects of personal development. The facility’s emphasis on maintaining security while providing humane treatment indicates that any programs offered would be designed to balance rehabilitation goals with the safety requirements of the correctional environment.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Chisago County Jail operates as a remote podular design facility, where inmates typically follow structured daily schedules overseen by professional correctional staff committed to maintaining constitutional standards. This modern facility design often allows for better supervision and management of daily activities, with inmates generally housed in pods that may include common areas for meals and programming. The facility’s commitment to providing nutritional meals and appropriate medical care helps establish the foundation for daily routines that typically include scheduled meal times, medical check-ins when needed, and various supervised activities.

Communication with family and friends is an important aspect of daily life, and those needing to contact inmates can reach the facility at 651-257-2931. The jail staff works to maintain security and inmate accountability while supporting connections with the outside community. Daily operations may include educational programming, recreational activities, and work assignments, though specific offerings can vary based on facility capacity and individual circumstances. The professional correctional staff, trained to uphold standards established by the U.S. Constitution and Minnesota Department of Corrections, typically ensures that daily routines balance security requirements with humane treatment.

For families planning visits or needing to complete booking orders, the facility currently processes certain services by appointment dedicated, requiring valid government-issued photo identification. The jail’s focus on maintaining a safe, secure, and constitutional environment means that daily life is structured around established procedures designed to protect both inmates and staff while supporting rehabilitation and maintaining community connections during an individual’s time in custody.