How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Mendocino County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Mendocino County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Mendocino County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Mendocino County Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Mendocino County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Mendocino County Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Mendocino County Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Mendocino County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Mendocino County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Mendocino County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Mendocino County Jail
   951 Low Gap Rd
   Ukiah, CA 95482
   Phone: (707) 463-4423

5. What are the visiting hours at Mendocino County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Mendocino County Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (707) 463-4423 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Mendocino County Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Mendocino County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Mendocino County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Mendocino County Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Mendocino County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Mendocino County Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Mendocino County Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Mendocino County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Mendocino County Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

The Mendocino County Jail in Ukiah operates a remote video visitation program in partnership with IC Solutions, allowing families and support networks to maintain crucial connections with incarcerated individuals. Located at 951 Low Gap Road, the facility processes individuals through a comprehensive booking system and ensures court appearances are scheduled within 72 hours of arrest, supporting the legal process while maintaining custody operations.

Beyond the core detention functions, the facility typically provides various rehabilitative services common to California correctional institutions. These may include substance abuse counseling programs, given the facility's protocols for individuals under the influence at the time of arrest, as well as educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs. Mental health services are often available to address the psychological needs of inmates, while vocational training programs may offer skills development in areas like construction, food service, or maintenance work.

The jail likely offers additional support services including religious programming, library access, and recreational activities to promote positive behavioral changes during incarceration. Medical services are typically provided on-site, ensuring inmates receive necessary healthcare throughout their stay. Work programs within the facility may allow eligible inmates to gain experience in institutional operations while potentially earning credits toward their sentences, supporting their eventual reintegration into the community upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The booking process at Mendocino County Jail in Ukiah can take several hours depending on facility workload, setting the tone for the structured environment that inmates encounter. Located at 951 Low Gap Road, the facility operates under strict scheduling protocols, including a nighttime lockdown period where no releases occur between 10:00 PM and 8:30 AM. Individuals arrested under the influence of drugs or alcohol typically remain in custody until they are no longer impaired, even if eligible for release on their own recognizance.

Remote video visitation through IC Solutions has modernized how inmates maintain family connections, allowing loved ones to schedule visits without traveling to the facility. This system represents a significant shift from traditional in-person visits, providing more flexible scheduling options while maintaining security protocols. The facility processes court appearances within 72 hours of booking, though this timeframe excludes weekends and public holidays. Inmates may experience delays in release processing, particularly those returning from court, with typical release times ranging from two to four hours depending on paperwork completion.

Daily routines at the facility likely follow standard correctional practices common throughout California, including scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and educational or work programs when available. The jail's location in Ukiah positions it as the primary detention center for Mendocino County, serving both pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences. Bail procedures require cash, certified checks, or money orders made out to the appropriate court, with personal checks not accepted, reflecting the facility's emphasis on secure financial transactions and proper documentation throughout all processes.