NDSP Visiting Hours: When You Can (and Can't) Visit — Check Before You Come

One schedule on the North Dakota DOCR

But the same NDSP page shows a different visiting-hours block. That version lists Tuesday–Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., plus Saturday–Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. These two schedules don't match - don't assume either is current without confirming.

Planning to bring a child? Check the minor-visitor rules first. NDSP requires anyone under 18 to be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Exceptions need written permission and approval from the Chief of Security.

Two conflicting schedules on the same page? That's a recipe for showing up to a closed door. One schedule shows Monday as no visiting and Tuesday–Thursday as 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Thursday adult-only). The other lists Tuesday–Friday 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and adds weekend hours. This mismatch is exactly why you need to verify before you travel.

• ✓ Confirm the current NDSP visiting schedule on the North Dakota DOCR “Family and Friends” visiting information page before you leave. (clm_1)
• ✓ Double-check the day and time with the resident you’re planning to visit, since the page shows conflicting time blocks. (clm_11)
• ✓ Make sure you’ve completed a visitation application before trying to visit. (clm_1)
• ✓ Don’t travel until you’re pre-approved and placed on the resident’s visitation list. (clm_2, clm_3)
• ✓ If you’re mailing an application, send it to: NDSP ATTN: Visiting, PO Box 5521, Bismarck, ND 58506-5521. (clm_11)
• ✓ Build in processing time - NDSP notes it can take up to 15 business days once the facility receives the visitor application. (clm_4)

Even with the right day and time, you can still be turned away if you aren't cleared. NDSP requires visitors to be pre-approved and on the resident's visitation list. Treat that as your green light to travel: confirm with the resident that you're approved and on their list before making plans around any posted hours.

1. Submit your visitation application early - NDSP requires a completed visitation application before you can visit. (clm_1)
2. Wait for pre-approval - you must be pre-approved before visiting. (clm_2)
3. Confirm you’re on the resident’s visitation list - approval isn’t enough if you’re not listed. (clm_3)
4. Allow for processing time - NDSP notes applications can take up to 15 business days after the facility receives them. (clm_4)
5. Only travel once you have confirmation - plan your trip after you’ve verified your status and the current schedule.