How to Visit Facility

Lancaster County Prison runs visitation in set time blocks. Morning slots are 8:00–9:00 and 9:00–10:00. Afternoon and evening slots are 1:00–2:00, 2:00–3:00, 6:30–7:30, and 7:30–8:30.

You can't just show up. Visits must be scheduled by calling the day before, and walk-ins are not allowed. Pick your time block and lock it in ahead of time.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time so you can check in. Bring a current government-issued photo ID, and make sure the address on it matches what's listed on the inmate's visitation list. If your ID is expired or the address doesn't match, you may be turned away.

Every visitor must pass through the metal detector. You get two attempts, no exceptions. When you arrive, line up outside at the ramp entrance and enter one at a time. The only exception to lining up outside is during inclement weather.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Call the day prior to schedule your visit (no walk-ins), and choose one of the available time blocks.
• ✓ Arrive 15 minutes early so you have time to check in.
• ✓ Bring a current government-issued photo ID, and confirm the address on your ID matches the inmate’s visitation list.
• ✓ Be ready to go through the metal detector (you get two opportunities, no exceptions).
• ✓ Plan to line up outside at the ramp entrance and enter one at a time (inclement weather is the exception).
• ✓ Leave purses, backpacks, and cell phones at home if you can, or bring quarters for the $0.50 lobby locker.
• ✓ If you were previously incarcerated, make sure you are at least 6 months removed before trying to visit.

Before you go, verify the basics, especially if it's been a while since your last visit. Confirm the current visitation time blocks and that scheduling still requires calling the day prior (walk-ins still not allowed). Double-check what you'll need at check-in: current government-issued photo ID with an address matching the inmate's visitation list. If you plan to bring personal items, confirm the lobby locker setup and that the cost is still $0.50, quarters only. Anyone with a prior incarceration should verify the 6-month waiting period is still in effect. Also confirm the metal detector process (two attempts, no exceptions) and the line-up procedure at the ramp entrance, including how they handle inclement weather.

The safest approach is to contact the facility directly and review any posted visitation rules. A quick check the day before can save you a wasted trip, especially when schedules or procedures change.