Kootenai County Jail Visitation: Rules, Scheduling & Contact Info

Kootenai County Jail Visitation allows families and friends to connect with inmates through in-person and video visits. The jail offers multiple ways to schedule visits, including an on-site kiosk, online portal, mobile app, or phone support. All visits must be booked up to seven days in advance. Visitors must follow strict rules about ID, dress code, and session length. This page covers everything you need to know about visitation hours, how to schedule, what to bring, and how to stay updated on an inmate’s status.

How to Schedule a Visit at Kootenai County Jail

You can book a visit in four ways. First, use the self-service kiosk inside the jail lobby at 5500 N Government Way, Coeur d’Alene. The kiosk takes cash, credit, or debit cards and prints a receipt you must show at check-in. Second, visit GettingOut.com from any computer. Third, download the GettingOut mobile app for iOS or Android. Fourth, call 866-516-0115 to speak with a support agent. All visitors must create an account and upload a government-issued photo ID before booking. Once approved, you can select a time slot up to one week ahead.

Visitation Hours and Time Limits

Face-to-face visits run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. On weekends, hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Each session lasts 30 minutes. Only one visit per inmate per day is allowed. Late arrivals may lose their slot. If you miss your appointment, you must reschedule. The jail does not offer walk-in visits. All appointments must be booked in advance using one of the approved methods.

Dress Code and ID Requirements

All visitors must wear closed-toe shoes. Open-toed shoes like sandals or flip-flops are not allowed. Hats, caps, and head coverings are banned unless required for religious reasons. Clothing with logos, slogans, or graphics is prohibited. This includes team jerseys, brand names, or political messages. You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper ID. Failure to follow the dress code will result in denied entry.

Video Visits: Remote Options for Families

Kootenai County Jail offers video visits through the GettingOut system. These calls let you see and talk to an inmate from home. Video visits cost $1.00 per minute and last up to 15 minutes. You can start a call using three methods: the GettingOut kiosk at the jail, the website on a computer, or the mobile app on a smartphone. Each user must register, verify their ID, and link to the inmate’s account. Payment is made before the call starts. Technical support is available 24/7 at 866-516-0115 if you have issues connecting.

Setting Up a Video Visit Account

To use video visits, create a Friends & Family account at GettingOut.com. Select “Kootenai County Jail” as the facility. Enter the inmate’s full name and booking number. Upload a clear photo of your driver’s license or state ID. The system checks your info against jail records. Once approved, add funds to your account using a credit or debit card. Each minute of video costs $1.00. You can schedule a call up to seven days in advance. Calls are not recorded and can be canceled if the inmate is unavailable.

Finding an Inmate and Checking Their Status

Before visiting, confirm the inmate is still in custody. Use the online inmate search tool on the Kootenai County Sheriff’s website. Type the person’s first and last name or booking number. Results show current housing location, charges, bond amount, and next court date. The database updates every 15 minutes. You can also call 208-446-1400 for a voice response with the same info. If the person has been released or transferred, visitation is not possible. Always verify status before traveling to the jail.

Real-Time Alerts for Custody Changes

Sign up for In-Custody Report alerts to get instant updates. Choose to receive notifications by phone call, text message, or email. Alerts include releases, transfers, escape attempts, and upcoming court events. To enroll, call 208-446-1400 and follow the prompts. Or fill out the online form on the sheriff’s website. You can pick which types of alerts to receive. The system pulls data from the daily press log and official roster. Notifications are sent within minutes of a status change.

Sending Money to an Inmate

Inmates can use funds for phone calls, commissary items, and clothing. Deposit money using the GettingOut kiosk in the jail lobby. Cash deposits have no fee. Credit or debit card transactions include a 2% processing fee. You can also send money online through TouchPay at GettingOut.com. Enter the inmate’s ID number and choose an amount. Funds appear in the account within 30 minutes. Call 866-516-0115 for help with deposits or account issues.

Accepted Payment Methods

The jail accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards at lobby kiosks. Online payments use Visa, Mastercard, or Discover. Money orders can be mailed to the jail address. Personal checks are not accepted. All deposits go into the inmate’s trust account. They can spend up to $100 per week on commissary. Phone time is billed separately. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.

Mail Guidelines for Inmates

Send mail to: Inmate’s Full Name, Booking Number, Kootenai County Jail, 5500 N Government Way, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. Use plain white envelopes. Do not include stickers, glitter, or Polaroid photos. Letters must be handwritten or typed. Books and magazines must come directly from a publisher or bookstore. No used books are allowed. All mail is inspected for contraband. Inmates receive mail within 24 to 48 hours of delivery.

Prohibited Items in Mail

Do not send cash, stamps, or homemade drawings. No photos larger than 4×6 inches. No nude or inappropriate images. No food, drugs, or weapons. No gang-related material. Anything violating these rules will be confiscated. The inmate will be notified. Repeated violations may result in mail privileges being suspended.

Phone Calls and Communication Rules

Inmates can make outgoing calls using prepaid accounts. Families can add minutes through TouchPay or the GettingOut app. Calls are limited to 15 minutes. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All calls are monitored and may be recorded. Three-way calling is not allowed. If you suspect abuse, report it to jail staff. Phone service is provided by GTL (GettingOut). Rates vary by time of day and location.

How to Add Phone Time

Log in to your GettingOut account. Select the inmate’s profile. Choose “Add Funds” and enter a dollar amount. Pay with a credit or debit card. Minutes are added within minutes. You can also use the kiosk in the jail lobby. Cash deposits are instant and fee-free. Card deposits include a small fee. Keep track of your balance to avoid service interruptions.

Medical Services and Prescription Eyeglasses

The jail provides basic medical care. Inmates can request a health evaluation by submitting a form to the medical office. Prescription medications are dispensed by licensed pharmacists. All drugs are recorded in the inmate’s health file. If an inmate needs eyeglasses, they must submit a valid prescription. Approved lenses are provided at no cost. Over-the-counter items like aspirin are available through commissary.

Requesting Medical Attention

Inmates write a request slip and place it in the medical drop box. Staff reviews requests daily. Urgent cases are seen within 24 hours. Routine requests may take up to three days. Mental health services are also available. All care follows state and federal guidelines. Families cannot directly contact medical staff due to privacy laws.

Jail Bureau Operations and Daily Life

The Jail Bureau manages meals, housing, and security. Breakfast is served at 7 a.m., lunch at 12 p.m., and dinner at 5 p.m. Meals meet nutritional standards set by medical staff. Housing is based on security level: minimum, medium, or maximum. Inmates are assigned by offense history and behavior. Random cell searches happen every shift. Mail is processed 24/7. Transport to court or medical appointments uses secure vehicles.

Security and Safety Measures

Cameras monitor common areas. Staff conduct headcounts every two hours. Inmates must follow rules or face disciplinary action. Gangs and violence are not tolerated. Visitors are screened at entry. Metal detectors and pat-downs may be used. The jail works with local law enforcement to maintain order. All incidents are logged and reported.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting hours start at 7 a.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends. The last visit begins at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 8 p.m. on weekends. Phone calls are made by inmates only. You cannot call them directly. Money can be sent via kiosk, online, or money order. Mail must include the booking number. Video visits cost $1.00 per minute. Always bring a photo ID.

What Happens If I Arrive Late?

If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, your visit may be canceled. The jail does not offer make-up sessions. You must reschedule online or by phone. Arriving early is recommended. Check in at the front desk with your receipt and ID. Wait in the designated area until called.

Can Children Visit Inmates?

Yes, children can visit if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The adult must show ID and sign a waiver. Children must behave appropriately. Disruptive behavior may end the visit. No toys or snacks are allowed in the visiting area. Strollers must be folded and stored.

How Do I Know If an Inmate Has Been Released?

Check the inmate search tool online or call 208-446-1400. You can also sign up for custody alerts. These notify you by text, email, or phone if the person is released, transferred, or has a court date. Alerts are free and easy to set up.

Can I Bring Food or Gifts to an Inmate?

No. Outside food, drinks, or personal items are not allowed. All items must be purchased through commissary. You can send approved books by mail. Do not bring packages to the jail. They will be rejected. Only money and mail are accepted from visitors.

What If I Lose My Visit Receipt?

Contact GettingOut support at 866-516-0115. They can resend a digital copy to your email. You can also log in to your account online to view upcoming visits. Always keep your confirmation number handy. Without proof of booking, you may not be admitted.

Are Visits Recorded?

Yes. All face-to-face and video visits are recorded for security. Recordings are stored for 90 days. They may be used in investigations. Visitors are informed of this policy at check-in. Do not discuss illegal activities during visits.

How Do I Report a Problem with a Visit?

Speak to a staff member at the jail or call the sheriff’s office at 208-446-1400. For technical issues with video calls, contact GettingOut support. Keep records of your booking and payment. The jail aims to resolve complaints within 48 hours.

Contact Information and Official Resources

Kootenai County Jail is located at 5500 N Government Way, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. The main phone number is 208-446-1400. For visitation support, call 866-516-0115. Visit the official website at www.kcsheriff.com. Use the inmate search tool, sign up for alerts, or view jail policies online. The lobby kiosk is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Staff are available to assist with questions during business hours.