Visiting Room Checklist for Idaho State Correctional Center: What to Bring and What Not to Bring

Before planning an in-person visit at Idaho State Correctional Center (ISCC), make sure you've completed the required clearance steps. You'll need to submit a visiting application and pass a background check. If you haven't been approved yet, you may be turned away at the door - even after traveling a long way.

Prohibited Items

• ✓ Outside food of any kind (including gum and candy)
• ✓ Pictures of any kind (including keychain-sized electronic picture viewers)
• ✓ Oils of any kind (including religious oils)
• ✓ Can openers
• ✓ Sunglasses
• ✓ Documents of any kind

ISCC's visiting room rules are strict. Outside food isn't allowed - not even gum or candy. Pictures are also prohibited, including photos stored on keychain-sized electronic viewers. You can't bring oils (including religious oils), can openers, sunglasses, or documents of any kind into the visiting area. If you think you might qualify for a food exception, check the Visiting Rules for the limited circumstances where that's permitted.

Want snacks or drinks during the visit? No paper money is allowed in visiting rooms. Bring coins in a clear plastic bag, or use a debit or credit card (if applicable) for vending machine purchases.

• ✓ Coins in a clear plastic bag (for vending)
• ✓ A debit or credit card (if applicable)
• ✓ No bills or paper cash

Expect security screening at entry. Staff may search any visitor or item entering the visiting area under Idaho Code 18-2510. Keep your pockets and bags simple, and be ready to follow instructions - it's the quickest way through.

If staff stop you for an item, stay calm. Ask what the item is, why it isn't allowed, and what your options are - returning it to your car, disposing of it, or another procedure. Before you leave, request clarification on the visiting rules so you can avoid the same issue next time.

1. Ask what’s being taken and why - get the rule explanation while you’re still at the entry point.
2. Ask what happens next - find out whether you can return the item to your car or if it must be surrendered.
3. Request a receipt if one is available - not every facility provides one, but it’s worth asking.
4. Write down the basics - date/time, what the item was, and any names or identifying details you’re given.
5. Follow up later with your question - once you’re out of the check-in line, contact the facility to confirm the rule so you’re set for your next visit.