Visitation at Iowa State Penitentiary

How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements

Overview

Iowa State Penitentiary offers free in-person and video visits for approved friends and family. You'll schedule every visit through the Ameelio app—Ameelio handles scheduling, but the facility makes approval decisions. To get approved, print the visitor application, sign it, and mail it in. Electronic applications aren't accepted. Each adult submits their own application; minors go on a parent or guardian's form. When you arrive, expect security screening: pat-downs, metal detectors, ion scanners, electronic-device checks, or visual searches. Refuse a search and you won't get in. Dress rules are enforced. Shoes are required. Miniskirts, above-the-knee shorts, muscle shirts, see-through clothing, and halter tops aren't allowed. Denied visitation? You can appeal in writing to the Central Visiting Authority at Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility.

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Quick Facts

  • In-person and video visits are free and must be scheduled through the Ameelio app for approved friends and family.
  • Visitor applications must be printed, signed, and mailed; electronic applications are not accepted and each adult must submit their own form.
  • All visitors are subject to searches, including pat-downs, metal detectors, ion scanners, electronic-device checks, or visual searches; refusal to comply denies entry.
  • Ameelio schedules visits but cannot approve or deny them; facility staff make approval decisions and denials can be appealed in writing to the Central Visiting Authority at Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility.
  • Visitors must follow dress rules; shoes are required and certain clothing (miniskirts, above-the-knee shorts, muscle shirts, see-through clothing, halter tops) is prohibited.

Visitation Guides

Common Questions

How do I apply to visit someone at Iowa State Penitentiary?

Print the visitor application, sign it, and mail it—electronic submissions aren’t accepted. Each adult must submit a separate signed application, and minors must be listed on a parent or guardian’s form.

Are visits free and how are visits scheduled at Iowa State Penitentiary?

Yes. In-person and video visits are free for approved friends and family. Once you’re approved, all visits must be scheduled through the Ameelio app; Ameelio handles scheduling, not approval decisions.

What happens if my visitation request is denied or if I refuse a search?

If your visitation request is denied, you can appeal in writing to the Central Visiting Authority at Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility. If you refuse required searches (which may include pat-downs, metal detectors, ion scanners, electronic-device checks, or visual searches), you’ll be denied entry.

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