What You'll Go Through at the Prison Entrance: Searches, Prohibited Items, and Medication Rules
The front gate can feel intense your first time, especially if you don't know what staff will ask for or what you're allowed to bring in. Here's what to expect at the entrance, what items are commonly prohibited, and how medications are handled so you can avoid delays or getting turned away.
By entering (or even attempting to enter) Bureau of Prisons grounds or facilities, you're consenting to a search. This is standard Bureau policy, backed by federal regulations (28 C.F.R. Part 511). Think of screening as a normal part of getting inside. It's not optional or negotiable.
Warning: If you refuse to be searched, you may be prohibited from entering Bureau grounds or facilities.
Prohibited Objects Common
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Explosives
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Intoxicants
- ✓ Currency
- ✓ Cameras (of any type)
- ✓ Recording equipment
- ✓ Telephones
- ✓ Radios
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Electronic devices
If you carry medication, expect extra scrutiny. The BP-A0224 form requires you to list every medication you have with you. Those medications must be left at the entry area. You won't be allowed to carry them farther into the facility.
- List every medication you are carrying - BP-A0224 requires all types of medication to be written down.
- Leave the medication at the entry area - you cannot bring it past the entrance screening.
- Follow staff instructions during screening - entering the grounds means you are consenting to the search process, so build in time to complete it and secure your items the way staff directs.
Call the facility before you go. Even if you've visited before, a quick call can save you a wasted trip if your visit isn't approved or if entry procedures have changed that day.
- ✓ Call ahead to confirm your visit will be permitted.
- ✓ Before you leave home, remove prohibited items like weapons, drugs or intoxicants, and currency.
- ✓ Leave cameras, phones, and other electronic devices behind so they are not on you at the entrance.
- ✓ If you carry any medication, list it as required and be ready to leave it at the entry area.
- ✓ Go in expecting to be searched as part of entering or attempting to enter Bureau grounds.
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