What You Can't Bring Into Miami‑Dade Juvenile Detention (and why it matters)

The rule is simple: visitors shall not bring personal items into the secure area. Keys, purses, packages - leave them behind. Arrive with as little as possible and keep anything extra locked in your car.

Know who counts as an approved visitor before you go. Parents, grandparents, and legal guardians are automatically approved. Anyone else needs a court order or specific approval from the Superintendent (or designee). If you're unsure about your status, sort that out ahead of time - you don't want to deal with eligibility questions and personal-item restrictions at the same moment.

Expect screening at the door. All visitors are subject to electronic search upon entry. Follow staff directions closely - this keeps the secure area safe for youth, visitors, and staff.

Refuse the search or ignore officer instructions? You'll be denied entrance. The same applies if you appear under the influence, can't produce proper photo ID, try to bring contraband inside, or show up acting disruptive or wearing inappropriate clothing. Even small issues can keep you out - or end the visit before it starts.

Practical Checklist

• ✓ Leave personal items out of the secure area (including keys, purses, and packages).
• ✓ Expect an electronic search at entry and cooperate with the process.
• ✓ Bring proper photo identification so you’re not turned away at the door.
• ✓ Follow officer instructions and arrive ready to comply with facility rules; refusal can mean denial of entry.
• ✓ Don’t attempt to bring anything that could be considered contraband - unauthorized items can be confiscated and may lead to denial of entrance.
• ✓ Sign in and sign out on the youth’s Visitor’s Log during your visit.
• ✓ If you think you may need to bring something unusual, confirm what’s permitted before you arrive.

Questions about the youth's case or charges? Contact the assigned Juvenile Probation Officer (JPO). For visitor-related questions - what you can bring, what to do with something you're carrying, what's allowed at the door - ask the on-duty JJDO Supervisor.

1. Tell staff before you try to enter - if you have an item that might be questioned, don’t sneak it in or argue about it; be upfront during screening.
2. Be ready for a “no” - because all visitors are subject to electronic search, you may be denied entrance if you refuse the search or if the item is treated as contraband.
3. Get clarity ahead of time - for case- or charge-related questions, contact the youth’s assigned JPO; for other visitor questions, contact the on-duty JJDO Supervisor.