How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements
Everything starts with getting approved. Adult visitors must complete the Visiting Application (DRC‑2096), sign the Declaration of Understanding (DRC‑2554) and General Visiting Instructions (DRC‑2274), and include a legible copy of a photo ID in the application packet. Once approved, register through the GTL/ViaPath visitation portal to reserve your visits. First visits in the reception area follow reception rules, and some reception inmates have an eight-day no-visit period. Every visit includes entry screening and possible searches. Items that commonly trigger metal detectors (hairpins, underwire bras, some shoes, excessive jewelry) can delay or prevent entry. Electronics, purses, and tobacco are all prohibited. The dress code is strictly enforced: no skin-tight clothing, and whatever you wear must stay on for the entire visit. Bringing a child? You'll need a Minor Visitor Application (DRC‑2238) signed by the custodial parent or guardian, plus proof of identity, before their first visit.
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Getting on someone's approved visiting list at Richland Correctional Institution comes down to one thing: submitting a complete, truthful application package with the required signatures and a readable copy of your photo ID.
Getting approved to visit at Richland Correctional Institution comes down to one thing: submitting a complete, truthful application packet with the required signed forms and a clear copy of your photo ID.
Visiting someone at Richland Correctional Institution takes a little prep, but it's manageable once you know the steps. Start with the visitor application, move on to scheduling, and plan for security screening on the day of your visit.
If you want your visit at Richland Correctional Institution to go smoothly, plan on your ID being checked twice: once with your application, and again at the door every single visit.
What you wear can make or break your visit at Richland Correctional Institution. Use the quick rules and checklists below to avoid extra screening, delays, or getting turned away at the door.
Dress code problems are one of the fastest ways to get turned away at the door. Here's how to dress so you get through entry smoothly at Richland Correctional Institution.
What you bring to the front desk can make or break your visit. Here's exactly what's allowed—and what's not—at Richland Correctional Institution.
Visiting list rules can feel confusing at first. Here are the key limits and approval requirements at Richland Correctional Institution under Ohio DRC visiting policy.
At Richland Correctional Institution, an incarcerated person can have up to 15 approved adult visitors on their list. Once the list hits that cap, someone has to be removed before a new adult can be added.
Complete the adult Visiting Application (DRC‑2096), sign the Declaration of Understanding (DRC‑2554) and General Visiting Instructions (DRC‑2274), and include a legible copy of your photo ID with the application. You'll also need to bring valid identification each time you visit.
An incarcerated person’s visiting list can include up to 15 approved adult visitors. No more than two people on the list may be designated as friends.
Leave all electronic devices behind, including smart watches and cell phones. Tobacco products, purses, handbags, backpacks, and similar bags are also banned. Strollers aren't permitted, though infant carriers and clear diaper bags with limited baby items are allowed (subject to search). Skip skin-tight clothing, and be ready for metal-detector screening and possible searches. Hairpins, underwire bras, certain shoes, and excessive jewelry may delay or prevent entry.
If you're planning to stay in touch through visits or video visits, there are a few rules at Richland Correctional Institution that affect what you can do and what you can bring.
Sending money to someone at Richland Correctional Institution is straightforward once you know the rules. A few Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) policies can trip people up, though, so start here to avoid delays or rejected payments.
A smoother visit starts with packing light. Here's what Richland Correctional Institution allows inside the visiting area, and what you need to leave behind.
