Before Your First Visit to SCI Fayette: Essential Checklist and What to Expect at Check-In
Your first visit to SCI Fayette will go smoother if you're ready for security screening and know the vehicle rules. This checklist helps you avoid getting turned away at the gate or during check-in.
Vehicle Parking
- ✓ Lock your vehicle while you’re on SCI Fayette property.
- ✓ Roll up/close your vehicle windows while you’re on SCI Fayette property.
Your vehicle can be searched while on SCI Fayette property. Treat your car like it might be inspected: keep it clean, don't leave valuables visible, and secure any equipment before you arrive.
Everyone gets searched at check-in - kids included. If you're bringing children, build in extra time and pack light. Fewer items means faster screening for everyone.
Metal detector screening: All visitors must pass through a metal detector, so dress and accessorize with that in mind to avoid delays.
There's no waiting area at SCI Fayette. Anyone not visiting must leave the property - they can't hang around while you're inside. Sort out childcare and rides beforehand so you're not stranded with someone who has nowhere to go.
Verify Before You Go
- ✓ Visiting days and hours for SCI Fayette (and whether they change for holidays)
- ✓ Whether you must schedule in advance, and how scheduling works
- ✓ What forms of ID are accepted for entry
- ✓ The current prohibited-items rules (what you can leave in your car vs. what can’t come onto the property)
- ✓ Limits on the number of visitors, and any age rules for minors
- Confirm the current visiting schedule - check the Pennsylvania DOC’s official visitation information for SCI Fayette or call the facility before you travel.
- Verify your visit details in the DOC visitation system - make sure you’re approved and that your visit is scheduled the way the facility requires.
- Ask two make-or-break questions - what IDs are accepted, and what items will get you turned away at the door.
- Double-check arrival expectations - confirm when to arrive for check-in so you don’t miss your slot after driving all that way.
Before you travel: These rules cover vehicle and security basics only. Visiting hours, accepted ID types, and scheduling requirements aren't included here - confirm those with SCI Fayette or the PA DOC first.
Quick Checklist
- ✓ Lock your car and roll up/close the windows on SCI Fayette property.
- ✓ Assume your vehicle may be searched while you’re on prison grounds.
- ✓ Expect every visitor (including children) to be searched.
- ✓ Be ready to walk through a metal detector at check-in.
- ✓ Don’t bring a non-visitor to “wait” - there’s no waiting area, and they must leave the grounds.
Quick reminder: Double-check visiting hours, scheduling requirements, and accepted ID before your trip - those details aren't covered above.
Find an Inmate at SCI Fayette
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
