San Luis Obispo County Public Records /San Luis Obispo County Inmate Search

San Luis Obispo County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In San Luis Obispo County?

Inmate records in San Luis Obispo County are official government documents maintained by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county correctional facilities. These records document an individual's journey through the local criminal justice system from the point of arrest and booking through incarceration and eventual release.

Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, law enforcement agencies are required to maintain accurate records of arrests and bookings. These records are distinct from court records, which are maintained separately by the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court and document the judicial proceedings related to criminal cases. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations, inmate records specifically document custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where the following occurs:

Collection of biometric data (fingerprints, photographs)
Documentation of personal identifying information
Recording of arrest charges
Medical screening
Classification assessment

Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:

Housing assignments
Disciplinary actions
Program participation
Visitation logs
Medical treatments
Court appearances
Changes in custody status

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention requirements and departmental policies.

Are Inmate Records Public In San Luis Obispo County?

Inmate records in San Luis Obispo County are partially accessible to the public in accordance with the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, access is limited to specific information while protecting sensitive personal data.

Under Government Code § 6254(f), certain law enforcement records, including some inmate information, are exempt from disclosure requirements. The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office balances public transparency with privacy and security concerns when determining what information to release.

Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:

Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information (name, date of birth, booking date)
Charges filed
Bail/bond amounts
Expected release dates (for sentenced inmates)
Facility housing location (general information)

Information that is generally not publicly accessible includes:

Detailed medical records
Mental health evaluations
Social security numbers
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Information that would compromise institutional security
Records sealed by court order

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office provides public access to basic inmate information through their online inmate lookup system, which is regularly updated to reflect current custody status.

What's Included Inmate Records in San Luis Obispo County

Inmate records in San Luis Obispo County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. These records include multiple categories of information maintained by correctional authorities.

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
Booking photograph ("mugshot")
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking
Arresting agency
Custody classification level
Housing assignment
Scheduled court appearances
Disciplinary records
Program participation

Charge Information:

Arrest charges
Filed charges
Charge severity (misdemeanor/felony)
Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Warrant information (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bail amount
Bond type
Bond status
Conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

Case numbers
Assigned court
Scheduled court dates
Court orders
Protective orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction charges
Sentence length
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Parole/probation eligibility
Special conditions

Release Information:

Release date
Release type (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Conditions of release

These records are maintained in compliance with California Code of Regulations Title 15, which governs minimum standards for local detention facilities.

San Luis Obispo County Prison System

The San Luis Obispo County correctional system operates under the jurisdiction of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration and operation of all county detention facilities. This system is distinct from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), which manages state prisons for individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year.

The county jail system primarily houses:

Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
Persons sentenced to terms of one year or less
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison
Persons held on probation or parole violations
Individuals detained on immigration holds

Under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109), some non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders who would have previously been sent to state prison now serve their sentences in county facilities, increasing the population and complexity of the county jail system.

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office Custody Division is responsible for the operation of all detention facilities in the county.

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4550
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system.

San Luis Obispo County Main Jail
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4600
San Luis Obispo County Jail Information

The Main Jail is a medium/maximum security facility that houses both male and female inmates. This facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, sentenced inmates, and individuals with special housing needs. The Main Jail includes specialized housing units for:

Administrative segregation
Protective custody
Medical observation
Mental health services
Disciplinary housing

San Luis Obispo County Honor Farm
880 Oklahoma Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4600

The Honor Farm is a minimum-security facility primarily housing:

Low-risk sentenced male inmates
Work release program participants
Inmates participating in educational and vocational programs
Trustees who work in various capacities within the jail system

Women's Jail Facility
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4600

This facility houses female inmates of all security classifications and provides gender-specific programming and services.

Kansas Avenue Assessment Center
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4600

This facility serves as the initial intake and processing center for all individuals arrested in San Luis Obispo County. Services include:

Booking and processing
Initial medical screening
Classification assessment
Mental health evaluation

All facilities operate under the guidelines established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) and adhere to Title 15 regulations governing minimum standards for local detention facilities.

Who's in Prison In San Luis Obispo County

The San Luis Obispo County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of several distinct categories of detainees.

Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the jail population. These individuals have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. They remain in custody because:

They have been denied bail
They cannot afford to post bail
They are awaiting arraignment
They have been deemed a flight risk or danger to the community

Sentenced inmates serving terms of incarceration make up another substantial segment. These individuals:

Have been convicted of misdemeanors (serving up to one year)
Are serving sentences for certain felonies under AB 109 realignment
May be participating in work, educational, or rehabilitation programs

Individuals held on probation or parole violations comprise another category. These persons:

Have allegedly violated terms of their supervised release
Are awaiting revocation hearings
May be serving short "flash incarceration" periods as sanctions

The jail also houses individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions, including:

Persons sentenced to state prison awaiting transport
Individuals with holds from other counties
Persons with immigration detainers awaiting transfer to federal custody

Special populations within the jail system include:

Individuals requiring mental health services
Persons with medical conditions requiring specialized care
Veterans participating in veteran-specific programs
Individuals participating in substance abuse treatment

According to data from the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population fluctuates but typically ranges between 500-600 inmates across all facilities.

How To Search for Inmate Records In San Luis Obispo County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in San Luis Obispo County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches, depending on the type of information needed and the purpose of the inquiry.

The most efficient method for locating current inmates is through the online inmate lookup system provided by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office. To utilize this resource:

Visit the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Jail Information" section
Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
Enter the required search criteria (at least one is required):
- Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking number
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bail amount
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if sentenced)

For more comprehensive inmate records or historical information, individuals may submit a formal public records request:

Complete a Public Records Act request form, available on the county website
Submit the request to:

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office Records Division
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
(805) 781-4540

Specify the information being requested and provide identifying information about the inmate
Allow up to 10 business days for a response, as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c)

For court case information related to an inmate, the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court provides access through their online case lookup system.

How To Find an Inmate in San Luis Obispo County for Free?

San Luis Obispo County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated in county facilities. These resources are accessible to the general public without requiring payment or subscription fees.

The primary free resource is the online inmate locator system maintained by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office. This searchable database is updated regularly and provides basic custody information. To access this system:

Visit the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
Review the results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Next court date (if applicable)
- Bail information

For individuals who do not have internet access, the following alternatives are available:

Telephone Inquiry: Contact the San Luis Obispo County Jail at (805) 781-4600 during business hours. Provide the full name and, if possible, the date of birth of the person you are trying to locate. Staff can confirm if an individual is in custody and provide basic information.

In-Person Inquiry: Visit the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office during public counter hours:

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
(Excluding holidays)

For individuals who may be in state prison rather than county jail, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) provides a free online inmate locator system called CIRIS (California Incarcerated Records & Information Search).

Court case information related to an inmate's charges can be accessed through the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court's online case lookup system, which is also available at no cost.

How To Visit an Inmate In San Luis Obispo County

Visitation with inmates in San Luis Obispo County detention facilities is governed by specific protocols established by the Sheriff's Office to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must adhere to these regulations.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Pre-registration is required for all visits
Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time
All visitors are subject to search
Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry

Visit Schedule: Visitation hours vary by facility and housing unit. Currently, the general schedule is:

Main Jail: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Honor Farm: Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Women's Jail: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

To schedule a visit:

Call (805) 781-4600 at least 24 hours in advance
Provide inmate name, your name, and requested visit time
Receive confirmation of appointment

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
Visitor pass received at check-in
Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
Medical necessities (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Tools
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
Recording devices
Food or beverages
Tobacco products
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)

Dress Code:

No revealing or provocative clothing
No gang-related attire or symbols
No law enforcement or security-type uniforms
Shirts and shoes required
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
No excessively baggy clothing

Visit Types:

Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
Video visitation (available at some facilities)

Visit Restrictions:

Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
Visits typically limited to 30 minutes
Inmates in disciplinary status may have restricted visitation
Special housing units have modified visitation schedules

All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security concerns. Visitors are advised to verify current policies by calling (805) 781-4600 before planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a San Luis Obispo County Inmate

San Luis Obispo County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses during incarceration.

In-Person Deposits: Funds may be deposited in person at the jail lobby kiosk:

San Luis Obispo County Jail
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Lobby Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, seven days a week

The kiosk accepts:

Cash (exact amount, no change provided)
Credit/debit cards
Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
Service fee: $2.95 per transaction

Online Deposits: Funds may be deposited online through the TouchPay system:

Visit TouchPay Payment Services
Create an account or log in
Select "San Luis Obispo County Jail"
Enter inmate information (name and booking number)
Follow prompts to complete payment
Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
Service fee: $5.95 per transaction

Telephone Deposits: Funds may be deposited by calling TouchPay at 1-866-232-1899:

Provide inmate information when prompted
Follow automated instructions
Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
Service fee: $6.95 per transaction

Mail Deposits: Money orders may be sent via postal mail:

Make money order payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
Include sender's full name and return address
Mail to:

San Luis Obispo County Jail
Inmate Accounts
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $1.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate

Funds Usage Restrictions: Inmates may use funds for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Approved educational materials

Funds may not be used for:

Bail or bond payments
Restitution payments
Court fees or fines
Items prohibited by jail policy

All deposits are subject to a 48-72 hour processing period before funds become available in the inmate's account. Upon release, any remaining balance will be returned to the inmate via debit card.

How To Send Jail Mail In San Luis Obispo County

Correspondence with inmates in San Luis Obispo County detention facilities is permitted but subject to specific guidelines to ensure security and safety. All incoming and outgoing mail, except privileged legal correspondence, is subject to inspection and screening.

Regular Mail Guidelines:

All incoming mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
San Luis Obispo County Jail
1585 Kansas Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Mail must comply with these requirements:

Letters must be written in blue or black ink only
Envelopes must include sender's complete name and return address
Maximum 10 pages of standard 8.5" x 11" paper per envelope
Photographs limited to 4" x 6" size, maximum of five per envelope
No polaroid photos, photo paper, or cardstock
No perfumed or scented items
No stickers, labels, tape, or glue
No crayon, marker, highlighter, glitter, or colored pencil
No cards larger than 5" x 7"
No plastic or metal components

Prohibited Items: The following items will be rejected and may result in sender restrictions:

Cash or personal checks
Postage stamps or envelopes
Blank paper, notebooks, or journals
Hardcover books or magazines
Publications containing nudity or explicit content
Materials advocating violence, gang activity, or escape
Puzzles, games, or hobby materials
Food items or candy
Clothing or fabric items
Jewelry or accessories

Books and Publications: Books and magazines must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.) and are subject to content review. Publications must be paperback only.

Legal Mail: Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's bar number or official designation. Legal mail will be opened in the presence of the inmate but may be inspected for contraband.

E-Messages: San Luis Obispo County Jail offers electronic messaging through the inmate tablet system:

Create an account at GTL Connect Network
Select San Luis Obispo County Jail
Add the inmate to your contacts using their name and booking number
Purchase message credits
Compose and send messages
Service fee: $0.25 per message
Maximum message length: 2,000 characters

All correspondence is subject to monitoring and may be used as evidence in disciplinary proceedings or criminal investigations. Violation of mail policies may result in restrictions on an inmate's mail privileges or sender's ability to correspond with inmates.