San Francisco County CA Jail Details & Overview
When a loved one or friend gets arrested and is being held in the San Francisco County Jail, learning about how the facility operates and its rules is in your best interest. Learning how to send a letter, schedule a visitation, and other rules regarding the jail is essential.
We have gathered as much information on the County Jail as possible. Allow this information to help you determine the steps you need to take to interact with an inmate.
About the San Francisco County Jail
The San Francisco County Jail houses up to 392 people. This is the only San Francisco County Jail that houses female inmates.
The jail offers a range of available programs to assist inmates in improving their lives and preparing for re-entry into society.
Contact Information for the San Francisco County Jail
The phone number for the San Francisco County Jail is (415) 553-1430, and the physical location is:
425 7th St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
How to Find an Inmate in the San Francisco County Jail
If you would like to conduct a San Francisco County Jail inmate search online, the county sheriff operates a website that allows you to view complete lists of current inmates. You can also view jail mugshots in San Francisco county. This website is available 24 hours a day, and you can search by the inmate’s full name, booking number, or SF number.
You will need the booking number and SF number before scheduling the visitation and sending mail or adding money to an inmate’s account, so it is a good idea to perform this search first.
How to Visit an Inmate in the San Francisco County Jail
There are rules and regulations you need to be aware of before scheduling a visitation with an inmate. First, you will need to register for an account. The following general information is available to help you schedule a visitation with an inmate.
- You will need to schedule the visitation appointment online at least 24 hours in advance.
- Remember to have the inmate’s full name, SF number, and booking number handy when scheduling.
- You must submit a valid government-issued photo ID.
- You will need to log in to the online visit scheduler to schedule your visit.
- When reserving your first visitation, have the following information ready: Your full name, date of birth, email address, home address (must be the same as your ID card), and phone number.
- You can bring up to two visitors, for a total of three per visitation. You must provide the information above for each visitor when you register.
- Please arrive at the jail at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visitation begins.
- Your visit may be denied if you do not show a proper photo ID.
- You are only allowed to bring your keys, ID, and money. These must be secured in a provided locker.
- Parking is paid and limited, so please give yourself plenty of time by arriving early.
Scheduling a Minor Visit
An inmate may apply to have their minor child visit them. To qualify, the inmate must complete the following steps.
- Submit an application
- Successfully complete parenting classes
- Follow all rules of conduct
The inmate must NOT have a conviction, pending felony charge involving a minor, or a disqualifying order in place. Visitors who are 16 or 17 have the option of applying to visit their parent, legal guardian, or sibling. You must fill out an Unaccompanied Minor Form to apply.
Rules for Inmate Visitation
- All visitors over the age of 17 must present a valid photo ID. If you do not submit a photo ID, you will not be allowed to visit.
- Do not be disruptive.
- Do not take photos or record the visit.
- You may not bring cell phones or cameras.
- Do not show gang signs, graffiti, or tattoos.
- Inmates may not give visitors any items.
- You cannot visit an inmate if you have a restraining or protective order against them.
- All visitors and their belongings are subject to being searched.
- All visitations are monitored and recorded.
- Visitors must obey all posted rules and instructions from the correctional officers.
- Do not show uncontrollable behavior.
- Do not bring food, drinks, or personal items.
- Do not yell or use profanity.
- You may only visit an inmate once per visitation day.
- The jail is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
You may be detained or arrested for the following:
- Threatening the security of other inmates or staff
- Bringing alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, or medications
- Bringing weapons or explosives
- Arriving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Visitation Dress Code
You must follow the dress code for each visitation. You are not allowed to wear revealing clothing, and shoes must be worn at all times. If your clothing is not approved, you may be asked to change or leave.
- No head coverings are allowed unless for religious purposes and include the following: bandanas, ball caps, wave caps, headscarves, or hoodies
- No clothing that reveals your underwear
- No spaghetti straps, tank tops, sleeveless tops, bare midriffs, halter tops, or strapless tops
- No clothing that shows the genitals, buttocks, or breasts
- No sexually revealing clothing
- No excessively tight clothing or see-through clothing
- No mini-skirts or short shorts-all skirts and shorts must be as long as your fingertips placed by your sides
- No clothing that is printed with obscene words or images
- No gang-related colors or imagery
- Do NOT wear all orange, red, blue, or green clothing because you could be mistaken for an inmate
If you have questions about these rules or need assistance scheduling a visitation, call (415) 553-1430. You may also email support at [email protected].
Programs at the San Francisco County Jail
The San Francisco County Jail seeks to help rehabilitate inmates and get them on the path toward becoming effective citizens upon reentry into society. The following programs are available for inmates.
Glide Services
This program offers services to women who have been victims of violence and poverty. The Glide Services program offers case management, community referrals, and treatment groups.
Sisters In Sober Treatment Empowered by Recovery (SISTERS)
This support group helps women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. Through weekly support groups, female addicts learn to overcome their addictions and live sober lives. This group also focuses on teaching inmates life skills and improving their well-being.
Re-Entry Pod
The re-entry pod was built to house inmates close to their release dates. Here, inmates learn the skills they will need to live on the outside successfully.
Other Programs in the San Francisco County Jail
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Affordable Care Act
- Discharge Planning
- Law Library
- Narcotics Anonymous
- Jail-Based Career Center
- Older Adult In-Custody Services
- Roadmap to Peace
- Religious Services
- Survivor Restoration Program
- Successful Transitions for a New Beginning
- Transitional Age Youth Resiliency Program
- Librarian Services
Additional Resources
San Francisco County Sheriff Website
San Francisco County Court Records