Visiting With Kids at Tom Green County Jail: Age Rules, Timing, and What to Know

At Tom Green County Detention Center, anyone under 17 is considered a minor for visitation purposes. Kids under 17 can't visit on their own - an adult must accompany them the entire time. Here's the rule that catches families off guard: visitors under 17 can only come during evening visitation. Show up for a morning session with a minor, and you'll be turned away.

Bringing a child doesn't change the basic check-in process - you'll follow the same sign-up and entry steps as everyone else. Arrive organized with everyone ready to check in and move through when it's your turn.

Trying to coordinate multiple adults? The visitor limit depends on the session. Morning visitation allows up to four adult visitors. Evening visitation also allows up to four adults, but children don't count toward that limit. That makes evening visits the practical choice for families - and it's the only option for visitors under 17 anyway.

Think through your

Practical Tips

• ✓ Bring for a small child: one diaper and one bottle
• ✓ Leave in your vehicle: strollers, carriers, diaper bags, and purses

1. Set expectations before you go - Tell your child the visit will be short (20 minutes) so they aren’t surprised when it ends.
2. Handle basics ahead of time - Do feeding and diaper changes before check-in so you’re not trying to manage it during the visit.
3. Keep it simple during the visit - With only 20 minutes, focus on calm conversation and a quick “hi/bye” routine your child can follow.