Dutchess County Jail Dress Code: What to Wear (and What Not to Bring)
Visiting someone at Dutchess County Jail? Dress for screening. This checklist helps you avoid delays — or getting turned away at the door.
The dress code at Dutchess County Jail was revised as of June 4, 2025 - earlier versions are obsolete. Staff enforce the current rules, and they can also prohibit any clothing, footwear, or other items they consider a security risk. If you're unsure about an outfit, go simple and conservative. Don't lose your visit over something avoidable.
Reminder: All clothing - including your shoes - has to pass the metal detector at entry.
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- ✓ Tube tops
- ✓ Sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- ✓ Half shirts or crop tops that expose any portion of the stomach
- ✓ Any clothing that exposes any portion of the breast or stomach
A few clothing choices are easy to overlook. See-through garments aren't allowed. Ripped or torn clothing can get you stopped at screening. Leave hooded items at home, and skip layered clothing - even if it's just for warmth. Outerwear like seasonal jackets isn't permitted during visits either, so plan an outfit you'll be comfortable in without a jacket once inside.
Don’t wear orange: Orange clothing - or anything that resembles incarcerated individuals’ clothing - isn’t permitted for visitors.
Skirts and shorts have a clear length rule: hemlines can't be more than three (3) inches above the knee. Belts aren't allowed during visits either - even if you normally wear one every day, leave it behind.
Wearing jeans? Pay attention to the style. "Bib" style jeans aren't permitted, and neither are button-fly jeans. If you're not sure whether yours qualify, pick a different pair - better than having to change plans at the door.
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- ✓ Shoes containing metal supports (for example, steel-toe boots)
- ✓ Footwear above the ankle
- ✓ Open-toe shoes (sneakers are strongly recommended)
- ✓ Jewelry of any kind, except a wedding band and/or a religious medallion (no larger than two (2) inches, with a chain)
- ✓ Piercings
Headgear can cause problems at screening. It's not permitted unless it's religious headgear - and even then, expect a search. Hats aren't allowed. One thing that surprises people: underwire bras are prohibited. Choose a non-underwire option for your visit.
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- ✓ Cell phones
- ✓ Gum or candy
- ✓ Hair accessories such as plastic or metal barrettes, bobby pins, etc.
Show up with something that isn't allowed? You don't necessarily have to leave. Locker storage is available for items not permitted inside. To keep check-in moving, pack light - assume anything extra could slow you down.
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