What You Can't Wear to Salem County Jail: A Complete Dress Code Checklist

For the safest, fastest check-in, dress plain and covered from head to toe. Salem County Jail does not allow jewelry (including earrings). They also restrict revealing or form-fitting clothing: no skin-tight items, see-through fabrics, or tops that expose your shoulders or midriff. Skirt length matters too. Even your shoes can get you turned away.

• ✓ Jewelry of any kind, including earrings
• ✓ Skin-tight clothing (leotards, bike shorts, spandex, tights)
• ✓ See-through garments, tube tops, or anything that shows a bare midriff
• ✓ Tank tops, spaghetti-strap shirts, or muscle shirts
• ✓ Skirts shorter than knee length (knee length or longer is required)
• ✓ Prohibited footwear: flip-flops, open-toe shoes, spiked heels, steel-toed boots, or slippers

Even if your outfit passes the checklist above, staff can still refuse entry for clothing that does not meet their expectations. When choosing between two options, go with the more conservative one. Keep your look simple so there is nothing to question at the door.

Unsure about an outfit? Plan for a quick change. Bring a backup layer you can put on in the car, and assume staff will enforce the dress code as written. If they tell you something is not allowed, you will need to change before continuing.

1. Pack a plain cover-up. Bring a simple long-sleeve shirt or sweater you can throw on if your top is borderline.
2. Choose closed-toe shoes. If your shoes could be considered open-toe or flimsy, switch to a basic closed-toe pair.
3. Give yourself extra time. Arrive early enough that you can ask a quick question at check-in and still have time to change if needed.