Mail and photos: addresses, allowed items, and new state processing
- ✓ Include the sender’s full name and complete return address.
- ✓ Use the facility’s exact address format for the incarcerated person (for example, Cache County Jail lists an address format using the inmate’s full name and the jail’s street address).
- ✓ Follow size and paper limits where published (for example, Cache County Jail limits incoming mail to no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches on regular paper, not card stock).
Photo rules can be strict. Some jails return mail that doesn't match their format. Weber County Jail states that mail must come through the U.S. Postal Service, and only white, pre-stamped or metered postcards are accepted. Mail sent in envelopes or with pictures or adhesive stamps will be returned, and mail won't be accepted at the lobby window. Cache County Jail prohibits glitter, stickers, tape, white-out, staples, and other metal in mail.
If your loved one is in Utah state prison, a significant mail change is coming. The Utah Department of Corrections states that effective January 5, 2026, all personal (non-legal) incoming mail must be sent to UDC mail processing PO Boxes for scanning. This includes a PO Box address for USCF in Salt Lake City and a PO Box address for CUCF in Gunnison. Some county facilities also use centralized mailing addresses. Duchesne County Jail lists a mailing address for inmate letters that uses a PO Box in Greensboro, North Carolina (with a facility ID number), and states that incoming mail should be passed to inmates within 24 hours of the jail receiving it.
Common Questions
Q
Can I send photos or packages with mail?
It depends on the facility, and some Utah jails do not allow photos in regular mail at all. Weber County Jail says it only accepts white, pre-stamped or metered postcards and that mail with pictures will be returned, and Cache County Jail lists many prohibited mail items (including staples and other metal). For Utah state prisons, UDC says that starting January 5, 2026, personal (non-legal) mail must go to UDC processing PO Boxes for scanning and internal processing.
Q
My facility page says video visits only. Can I request an in-person visit?
Some facilities have moved away from regular in-person visits, but exceptions may be possible. Duchesne County Jail says regular in-person visits have been discontinued and that any in-person visit must be approved by the Jail Captain. They also state that visitation is meant to provide a safe atmosphere while supporting positive goals, and that violating visitation rules can lead to temporary or permanent suspension.
Q
How do I schedule a visit at the Utah State Correctional Facility?
UDC says the quickest way to schedule is by emailing uspscheduleavisit@utah.gov, and it also publishes a USCF phone number (801-522-7046). For visiting application questions, UDC lists uspvisiting@utah.gov. If you are driving to USCF for your visit, UDC also publishes directions from I-80 using the 7200 West exit and continuing to 8000 West.
Q
When will the Utah Department of Corrections new mail system start and what changes?
UDC states the new system starts January 5, 2026. Beginning that date, UDC says all personal (non-legal) incoming mail must be sent to UDC mail processing center PO Box addresses for scanning and internal processing, including a PO Box for Utah State Correctional Facility and a PO Box for Central Utah Correctional Facility.
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