What You Can’t Bring (and What to Wear) When Visiting an Inmate at FCI Lompoc
Visiting someone at FCI Lompoc? Plan to arrive with as little as possible. The Bureau of Prisons prohibits a wide range of items on Bureau grounds - anything that could be used as a weapon, anything illegal or intoxicating, and most electronics (phones, cameras, recording devices). Even cash can cause problems at the gate.
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Explosives
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Intoxicants
- ✓ Currency
- ✓ Cameras of any type
- ✓ Recording equipment
- ✓ Telephones
- ✓ Radios
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Other electronic devices
Medication works differently than other personal items. If you're carrying any medication, list it on the visitor notification form and leave it at the entry area. Don't assume "it's just a prescription" or "it's over-the-counter" gives you a pass - the rule covers all medications, no exceptions.
- Make a simple medication list - write down every medication you’re carrying (all types).
- Bring the list to check-in - you’ll need it to complete the visitor notification form.
- Be ready to leave the medication at the entry area - plan ahead so you won’t need access to it during the visit.
What you wear can mean the difference between getting in and getting turned away. BOP facilities expect clothing appropriate for a large gathering of men, women, and children. If staff consider your outfit provocative or revealing, they can deny you entry - no appeal, no second chance that day.
- ✓ Choose clothing that would be appropriate in a mixed, family setting
- ✓ Skip anything provocative or revealing (that’s the quickest way to be denied)
- ✓ If you’re on the fence, change into something more conservative before you go
Entering - or even attempting to enter - Bureau grounds means you're consenting to a search. Refuse, and you won't get in. Do a quick pocket and bag check before you leave home, then again before you approach the entry area. Phones, cameras, and recording devices are the most common reasons people get turned away.
Tip: Do a last-minute check before you head to the entrance: no cash, no phone, and nothing that records. If you’re unsure about an item, leave it behind rather than risk being denied entry.
A little prep goes a long way, especially for first-time visitors. Before you head out: get your medication info ready (if you carry any), choose an outfit that won't raise flags, and confirm the facility's visiting schedule. BOP institutions generally allow visits on weekends and holidays - sometimes weekdays too - but verify before you show up.
- ✓ Verify the facility’s posted visiting schedule (hours are generally on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, and sometimes during the week)
- ✓ If you’re carrying medication, list all of it on the visitor notification form and plan to leave it at the entry area
- ✓ Leave prohibited items behind, especially electronics like phones and anything that records
- ✓ Wear clothing suitable for a large mixed group; avoid provocative or revealing outfits to prevent being denied visitation
Find an Inmate at FCI LOMPOC
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
