Before Your First Visit: 5 Things That Will Get You Turned Away at Waupaca County Jail

You won't get in if you're not on the inmate's approved visiting list. Before making the trip, confirm with the person you're visiting that they've added you. Not sure? Call the facility to verify.

Show up intoxicated, high, or acting disruptive, and you'll be turned away. Staff prioritize keeping the visiting area safe, so any sign of impairment or escalation gets flagged immediately at check-in.

Show up without a valid photo ID and you can be refused entry. Bring your ID with you (not a photo of it), and make sure it’s current so there’s no delay at admission.

Travel light. Packages, handbags, coats, hats, and similar items cannot go into the Visitation Area. Use the provided lockers or leave belongings locked in your car so you're not scrambling at the door.

Dress code violations can end your visit before it starts. You'll need shoes and a shirt, and clothing must cover from the top of your shoulders to mid-thigh. Transparent materials and tube tops are not allowed. Once the visit begins, don't remove or rearrange your clothing, or staff may terminate the visit early.

Pre Departure Checklist

• ✓ Bring a valid photo ID
• ✓ Confirm you’re on the inmate’s approved visiting list
• ✓ Dress for the jail’s rules (shoes and a shirt, no transparent materials or tube tops, coverage from shoulders to mid-thigh) and do not remove or rearrange clothing during the visit
• ✓ Leave handbags, coats, hats, packages, and other personal items in a locker or locked in your vehicle
• ✓ Do not arrive intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, or ready to argue with staff

Got turned away? Take a breath and figure out what you can fix. Bring the right ID next time, adjust your outfit to meet dress code, and secure personal items before heading inside. If the issue is approval status, ask the person you're visiting to add you to their list. For anything unclear, call the facility before rescheduling so you don't waste another trip.