How to Schedule and Prepare for Your First Visit at Lancaster County Prison
Your first visit goes smoother when you pick the right time block, schedule it the day before, and show up ready for check-in and screening. Here's how to do it at Lancaster County Prison.
Lancaster County Prison offers set visitation time blocks. Morning slots run 8:00–9:00 and 9:00–10:00. Afternoon and evening options are 1:00–2:00, 2:00–3:00, 6:30–7:30, and 7:30–8:30. Pick a slot that gives you breathing room - you don't want to rush through check-in or feel squeezed for time during your visit.
You must schedule your visit by phone the day before - walk-ins aren't allowed. This "day prior" rule is strict, so don't wait until the morning of. If you're unsure which number to call, check the prison's current visitation information beforehand to make sure you're using the right contact.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. That buffer is for check-in - showing up right at the start of your block means other visitors are already being processed ahead of you.
You'll line up outside at the ramp entrance and enter one at a time. Bad weather? The facility makes exceptions for inclement conditions, but expect the same orderly, one-at-a-time entry once check-in starts.
Bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Staff also verify that the address on your ID matches what the inmate has on their visitation list. Moved recently? If your ID still shows an old address, that mismatch can cause problems at the desk. Sort it out before visit day if you can.
Locker tip: Lobby lockers are available for items that aren't allowed inside - purses, backpacks, cell phones - for $0.50 (quarters only). The facility isn't responsible for loss or damage, so store only what you have to.
Everyone clears a metal detector before visiting. You get two chances to pass through - no exceptions. Take a minute beforehand to remove anything metal that could slow you down.
Have a medical device or implant? Bring supporting documentation and be ready to show it at check-in. Having paperwork on hand can save you delays during screening.
Dress modestly and wear footwear. Clothing must keep commonly considered private body areas covered - staff will address anything that doesn't meet the standard. Plan around the metal detector too: underwire bras can make screening harder. And skip shirts with alcohol or drug logos - those are prohibited.
Once your visit starts, stay put. Leaving the visitation room for any reason cancels the rest of your visit. Use the restroom, handle childcare handoffs, and take care of anything else before you go in.
Warning: Not following visitation guidelines can get your privileges revoked. Unsure about a rule? Ask staff before you act.
Tips Checklist
- ✓ Schedule by phone the day before your visit (no walk-ins)
- ✓ Bring a current government-issued photo ID, and make sure the address matches what’s on the inmate’s visitation list
- ✓ Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to check in
- ✓ Bring quarters for the lobby lockers ($0.50) in case you need to secure a phone, purse, or other personal items
- ✓ Dress modestly with footwear; avoid underwire if possible and don’t wear shirts with alcohol- or drug-related logos
Last check: Follow staff instructions and posted rules closely - noncompliance can cost you future visits.
Find an Inmate at Lancaster County Correctional, NE
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
