What to Expect at Check‑In for a Gaston Visit: Dress Code, Metal Detectors, and Prohibited Items
The first few minutes of check-in can make or break your visit at Gaston. Show up dressed within the rules, leave prohibited items in your car, and clear the metal detector. Do that, and the process is usually quick.
You'll go through a metal detector at check-in. Everyone does. If you don't clear it, you won't be allowed past the entrance, so expect this as a normal part of getting in.
- ✓ Cellphones
- ✓ Smartwatches
- ✓ Cameras
- ✓ Recording devices
- ✓ Smart/AI glasses
Warning: Failing the metal detector or trying to bring prohibited electronics inside will get you turned away at the door.
Gaston follows NC prison visitation dress rules, and staff check your outfit at the entrance. Shirts and shoes are required. Revealing clothing is not allowed, even if it feels like normal warm-weather attire to you.
- ✓ Halter tops
- ✓ Bare midriff tops
- ✓ Strapless tops
- ✓ Tube tops
- ✓ Underwear-type T-shirts
- ✓ Tank tops
- ✓ Sleeveless shirts or dresses that are inappropriately revealing (if the breast or lingerie can be seen)
- ✓ Fishnet shirts
- ✓ Any shirt or pants made with see-through fabric
Tip: If you are unsure whether something counts as revealing, choose a more conservative outfit so you do not lose your visit at check-in.
Packing List Car and ID
- ✓ Cellphone (leave it in the car)
- ✓ Smartwatch
- ✓ Camera
- ✓ Recording device
- ✓ Smart/AI glasses
- ✓ If you are 16 or older, make sure your visitation application includes a copy of an approved picture ID
Getting turned away at check-in usually comes down to one of three things: you couldn't clear the metal detector, you brought prohibited electronics (like a phone or smartwatch), or your clothing didn't meet the dress code. These problems get flagged right at the door, before you're allowed any further.
- Ask what caused the denial. Knowing whether it was the metal detector, a prohibited item, or dress code helps you fix it quickly.
- Return prohibited items to your car. Electronics like phones, smartwatches, cameras, recording devices, and smart/AI glasses cannot go inside.
- Change into compliant clothing and try again on another day. Shirts and shoes are required, and revealing tops and see-through materials can get you turned away.
- Double-check your visitor paperwork. If you are 16 or older, your visitation application must include a copy of an approved picture ID.
Before you drive over: Not sure what you can bring, or whether the ID copy requirement applies to you (age 16 and up)? Call the facility to confirm so you don't waste a trip.
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