Before You Go: Complete Checklist for Your First Visit to Roanoke County Jail (Salem, VA)
Your first jail visit goes smoother when you know what gets you in and what gets you turned away. Use this checklist for Roanoke County Jail before you leave home, then read the short sections below for details.
Quick Checklist
- ✓ Bring proper identification (you will need it to visit).
- ✓ Dress to be admitted. If you are not properly dressed, you can be denied visitation. Dress code guidelines are available upon request.
- ✓ Do not bring food or drinks into the lobby or visitation area.
- ✓ Expect screening. Visitors are subject to search by a jail staff member of the same sex, so plan for a calm, cooperative check-in.
- ✓ If you bring a child (under 18), they must be with a parent or guardian and stay quiet and under control.
- ✓ Arrive sober. If you appear under the influence of an intoxicant, you will be denied visitation and can be subject to arrest.
- ✓ Keep the property clean. Littering on the premises is not tolerated.
Bring your ID and keep it easy to grab. You'll need it at check-in. Not sure if your specific ID will work? Call ahead before making the trip.
Plan your outfit with the door policy in mind. Visitors who aren't properly dressed can be turned away. If you're unsure what counts as "proper" here, ask about the dress code guidelines before you go. Don't lose your visit over clothing.
Leave food and drinks in your car. Nothing edible is allowed in the lobby or visitation area. If you're packing a bag for the day, assume other items could be restricted too. Check the rules before you arrive.
Expect security screening. All visitors are searched by a staff member of the same sex. The smoothest visits start simple: follow staff instructions, stay cooperative, and give yourself enough time so you're not rushing through the process.
Tip: Bring only what you need. Fewer personal items usually makes check-in and any required search simpler.
Bringing children? Plan for close supervision from the moment you arrive. All minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and stay quiet and under control. If you think a child may struggle with staying settled, consider arranging childcare instead. You could be turned away otherwise.
Don't show up if you've been drinking or using anything that could make you appear impaired. Visitors who seem under the influence will be denied entry and may be arrested. While on jail property, keep your behavior low-key and respectful, and don't litter.
Warning: If staff believes you are under the influence, you can lose your visit on the spot, and you may be arrested.
Verify Before Travel
- ✓ Confirm the current visitation schedule before you travel.
- ✓ Ask which forms of identification are accepted as “proper identification.”
- ✓ Request the dress code guidelines (examples of clothing that will be denied).
- ✓ Double-check what you can bring inside, beyond the no food and no drinks rule.
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