What to Know Before Your First Visit to George Bailey Detention Facility (GBDF)
Your first visit to GBDF will go much smoother if you handle the reservation early and show up prepared. Use the checklist below to get everything scheduled and avoid common last-minute problems.
For an in-person social visit, start with the San Diego County Sheriff’s central Custody Information line: (619) 409-5000. That number is used to schedule in-person social visit reservations for county detention facilities, including GBDF - so don’t wait until the last minute to call.
For video visits, GBDF uses the SMART/SmartInmate system. Video visitation launched on January 15, 2024, and slots fill up first-come, first-served. One important note: you must schedule video visits in advance - no same-day bookings allowed.
Call during the right window so you're not stuck on hold or locked out. GBDF's reservation line is open 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. If you're booking a video visit through SMART/SmartInmate, remember those slots are first-come, first-served and must be scheduled ahead - no same-day video visits.
Quick reminder: Call the Custody Information line at (619) 409-5000 during reservation hours (10:00 am to 6:00 pm) to schedule your in-person social visit.
GBDF is strict about timing: you must check in 60 minutes before your scheduled visit. Build that into your day. Show up close to the start time and you risk missing the visit entirely.
If you're 18 or older, bring a valid government-issued photo ID. GBDF requires it, and you won't get past check-in without it.
- ✓ If you’re bringing a minor, they must be accompanied by a parent.
- ✓ A court-appointed guardian can accompany the minor.
- ✓ Another adult with legal custody can accompany the minor.
Tip: Keep your photo ID easy to reach when you arrive, and if a minor is visiting, make sure the accompanying adult is a parent, court-appointed guardian, or has legal custody.
If anything feels unclear - like whether your reservation went through or which visit type you booked - call before you head out. For in-person visits, reach the central Custody Information line at (619) 409-5000 and select the option for GBDF.
- Call during the reservation window - GBDF’s reservation line hours are 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- Use the right number for in-person scheduling - In-person social visit reservations are handled through the central Custody Information line at (619) 409-5000.
- Schedule ahead if you’re doing video - Video visits run through SMART/SmartInmate and must be booked in advance; there are no same-day video visits.
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