What You Can and Can't Bring to Manatee Jail Visits (And What Happens If You Bring Your Phone)
Manatee Jail visits go smoothly when you bring the right ID, follow the dress code, and leave prohibited items—especially your phone—outside the Visitation Center. Here's what to know before you walk in.
You'll need a valid, non-expired, government-issued photo ID to check in at Manatee Jail's Visitation Center. A driver's license, state ID, military ID, or passport with photo all work. Expired ID? You'll be turned away at check-in.
Timing matters: Arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. If you check in after your scheduled session has started, you won’t be allowed to enter and your visit is automatically canceled.
The Visitation Center enforces a dress code, though the baseline is straightforward: wear shoes and a shirt. If you're unsure whether an outfit will pass, go with something more conservative. Getting turned away over clothing isn't worth it.
- ✓ Suggestive clothing
- ✓ See-through fabrics
- ✓ Halter tops
- ✓ Tube-type tops
- ✓ Short shorts
- ✓ Mini-skirts
Leave your phone in the car. Manatee Jail doesn't allow cell phones in the Visitation Center - same goes for other electronics. Even keeping it in your pocket can end your visit, so secure everything before heading in.
Phone consequence: If you’re caught with a cell phone, you’ll be asked to leave - and you may have future visits suspended.
Want to leave money for an inmate's commissary? Use the Cobra Cash Machine onsite. It's the approved way to make a deposit during your visit - no need to bring cash into the Visitation Center.
- ✓ Cash deposits must be in multiples of $5 up to $100
- ✓ The machine does not accept $1 bills
- ✓ Debit cards are accepted
- ✓ Credit cards are accepted
- Step out and secure the problem item - If staff finds a cell phone or other electronic device on you, you’ll be asked to leave, so immediately remove it from the Visitation Center.
- Change into compliant clothing - If your outfit falls into the “suggestive/revealing” category (like see-through fabric, a halter/tube top, short shorts, or a mini-skirt), swap to something acceptable before attempting to visit again.
- Prevent a repeat - Before your next visit, do a quick check: no electronics on your person, and clothing that clearly fits the Visitation Center rules.
Avoid a wasted trip: Don't show up more than 15 minutes early, and don't be late. If you check in after your scheduled start time, you won't get in and the visit is canceled. Switching to a remote visit instead? Cancel by 11:59 p.m. the night before, or you'll still get charged the fee.
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