Penmate Inmate Support Guides
Visitation

What to Expect During Security Screening at SCI Greene

Security screening can feel stressful your first time — especially when you don't know what's coming. Here's what Pennsylvania DOC requires at SCI Greene so you can show up prepared and avoid surprises.

• 2 min read • pa.gov
What to Expect During Security Screening at SCI Greene

Security screening at SCI Greene exists to keep the facility safe and prevent contraband from entering prison grounds. All visits follow Pennsylvania DOC rules, including the official Inmate Visiting Privileges policy (DC-ADM 812, effective October 17, 2022). One thing to know upfront: you must schedule your visit in advance through the Pennsylvania DOC Inmate Visitation System (IVS). Violating visiting regulations can result in suspended visiting privileges.

2

  • ✓ Keep your vehicle locked while you’re on prison property.
  • ✓ Be ready for the possibility of a vehicle search - all visitor vehicles are subject to search while on facility grounds.

Before entering SCI Greene, you'll pass through a metal detector. Every visitor goes through it - no exceptions. Expect a security checkpoint process, not a quick walk-in.

Note: Every person visiting SCI Greene is subject to search, regardless of age.

SCI Greene doesn't have a waiting area for non-visitors. If someone comes with you but isn't visiting, they can't stay on the grounds - they'll need to leave the property entirely. Keep this in mind when planning transportation, especially if you're thinking about having someone drop you off and wait nearby.

What to Expect During Security Screening at SCI Greene
  1. Confirm your visit is scheduled in IVS - all in-person and video visits must be scheduled in advance through the Pennsylvania DOC Inmate Visitation System.
  2. Follow the DOC visiting policy and staff instructions - visiting procedures are governed by DC-ADM 812, and rule violations can affect your ability to visit.
  3. Reach out for help if you’re stuck - contact the facility with questions, or email the DOC Central Office IVS support address if you need help with the visitation system.

Find an Inmate at SCI Greene Prison, PA

Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.

Exact spelling helps find results faster

Free to search · Used by families nationwide
Woman using phone to connect with loved one

More from SCI Greene Prison, PA

Before Your First Visit to SCI Greene: What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

Your first visit to SCI Greene will go much smoother if you set up the Inmate Visitation System (IVS) ahead of time and come prepared for security screening.

Before Your First Visit to SCI Greene: what to bring, vehicle prep, and what to expect at screening

Your first visit goes smoother when you handle the basics ahead of time: schedule through IVS, bring the right paperwork for kids, and show up ready for security screening and strict vehicle rules.

Phone & Messaging

How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

Before helping your loved one use any in-facility communication technology, there's one documented policy to be aware of: inmates and reentrants can be held financially responsible for losses, costs, or damages they cause to Department information technology systems if the damage is intentional or negligent. This policy can apply broadly to technology used inside the facility, including devices or systems for messaging, video communication, or other IT-based services. That's the only facility-specific communication detail covered by the evidence provided here. Phone numbers, vendor names, messaging rules, visiting or video schedules, fee amounts, and how charges are calculated aren't included. You'll need to confirm those details directly with the facility.