Santa Barbara County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Santa Barbara County?

Inmate records in Santa Barbara County are official government documents maintained by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within county correctional facilities. Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, these records document the custody status, charges, and other pertinent information related to persons in custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

• Court records are maintained by the Santa Barbara County Superior Court and document case proceedings, filings, and judicial decisions
• Inmate records are maintained by correctional facilities and focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
• Court records follow the legal case; inmate records follow the individual in custody

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process when an individual is first taken into custody. During intake, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the charges for which the person is being detained. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, the records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the Sheriff's Office database as required by state records retention laws.

Are Inmate Records Public In Santa Barbara County?

Yes, certain inmate records in Santa Barbara County are considered public information under the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which is codified in Government Code § 6250-6276.48. This law establishes the public's right to access government records, including specific information about individuals in custody.

The California Public Records Act § 6254(f) specifically addresses law enforcement records and requires disclosure of certain information about individuals in custody, including:

• Full name and occupation
• Physical description including date of birth, height, weight, and color of eyes and hair
• Date and time of arrest
• Date and time of booking
• Location of arrest
• Factual circumstances of arrest
• Amount of bail set
• Time and manner of release or location where the individual is being held
• All charges the individual is being held upon

However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible. Records that may compromise safety, security, or ongoing investigations may be exempt from disclosure. Additionally, medical and mental health information is protected under federal privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

What's Included Inmate Records in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County inmate records contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, eye and hair color
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Fingerprints
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Current custody status (in custody, released, transferred)
• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Projected release date (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• All current charges (including statute numbers)
• Case numbers
• Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor, infraction)
• Warrant information (if applicable)
• Parole/probation holds (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount for each charge
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond status (posted, not posted)
• Court-ordered conditions of release

Court Information:

• Next scheduled court appearance
• Court location
• Assigned judge
• Case status

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction date
• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Parole eligibility date
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Release date and time (if released)
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions (if applicable)

Santa Barbara County Prison System

The Santa Barbara County correctional system operates under the authority of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of county jail facilities. It is important to note that Santa Barbara County operates jail facilities, not prisons. Under California's correctional system structure, jails are county-operated facilities that primarily house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of one year or less, while prisons are state-operated facilities under the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) that house individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.

The Santa Barbara County jail system currently consists of two main facilities: the Main Jail in Santa Barbara and the Northern Branch Jail in Santa Maria. These facilities house individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors and some felonies with terms less than one year, and those temporarily held for transfer to other jurisdictions.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office
4434 Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
(805) 681-4100
Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs:

Santa Barbara County Main Jail
4436 Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
(805) 681-4260
Santa Barbara County Main Jail

The Main Jail is a medium/maximum security facility that houses both male and female inmates. It has a capacity of approximately 650 inmates and includes specialized housing units for administrative segregation, protective custody, and medical/mental health needs. This facility primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of one year or less.

Northern Branch Jail
2301 Black Road
Santa Maria, CA 93458
(805) 554-3100
Northern Branch Jail

Opened in 2022, the Northern Branch Jail is a modern correctional facility with a capacity of approximately 376 inmates. It houses both male and female inmates and includes specialized housing for various classification levels. The facility features enhanced programming space for rehabilitation, education, and vocational training.

Santa Barbara County Alternative Sentencing Bureau
4436 Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
(805) 681-4221
Alternative Sentencing Bureau

While not a physical detention facility, the Alternative Sentencing Bureau administers several non-custodial sentencing options, including:

• Electronic monitoring program
• Work alternative program
• Work furlough program
• Home detention

Who's in Prison In Santa Barbara County

The Santa Barbara County jail system houses several categories of individuals:

1. Pre-trial detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are either awaiting trial or have been unable to post bail.

2. Sentenced offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of one year or less. Under California's realignment policy established by Assembly Bill 109, certain non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders who would have previously been sent to state prison may serve their sentences in county jail.

3. Parole/probation violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their parole or probation and are being held pending hearings or revocation proceedings.

4. Individuals awaiting transfer: Persons who are temporarily housed while awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions, including state prison, federal custody, or other counties.

5. Immigration detainees: In some cases, individuals may be held on behalf of federal immigration authorities pending immigration proceedings.

The demographic composition of the jail population varies but generally reflects patterns seen throughout California's correctional system. According to data from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office, the jail population includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varying offense types, and different custody classifications.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Santa Barbara County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently in custody in Santa Barbara County may utilize several methods to access inmate records:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

1. Visit the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office Who Is In Custody webpage
2. Enter the required search criteria (at least one field is required):
   • Last name (required)
   • First name (optional, but recommended for more accurate results)
   • Booking number (if known)
3. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Inmate's full name
   • Booking number
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Custody status
   • Facility location
   • Bail amount

In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit either jail facility during normal business hours to request inmate information:

Santa Barbara County Main Jail
4436 Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
(805) 681-4260
Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Northern Branch Jail
2301 Black Road
Santa Maria, CA 93458
(805) 554-3100
Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Telephone Inquiries: Basic information about an inmate's custody status may be obtained by calling:

• Santa Barbara Main Jail: (805) 681-4260
• Santa Maria North Branch Jail: (805) 554-3100

Public Records Request: For more detailed information not available through the online lookup system, individuals may submit a formal public records request pursuant to the California Public Records Act:

1. Complete the Public Records Request Form
2. Submit the form via email, mail, or in person
3. Specify the information being requested and provide as much identifying information as possible about the inmate
4. Allow up to 10 business days for a response, as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c)

How To Find an Inmate in Santa Barbara County for Free?

Santa Barbara County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody:

County Online Inmate Locator: The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:

1. Navigate to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office Who Is In Custody webpage
2. Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (recommended)
3. Review the results, which are updated regularly throughout the day

State Prison Inmate Search: If the individual may be in state prison rather than county jail, use the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's inmate locator:

1. Visit the CDCR Inmate Locator
2. Enter the inmate's information (CDCR number if known, or name and date of birth)
3. Review the results to determine if the individual is in state custody

Telephone Verification: For those without internet access, basic custody information can be obtained by calling:

• Santa Barbara Main Jail: (805) 681-4260
• Santa Maria North Branch Jail: (805) 554-3100

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full name
• Date of birth (if known)
• Booking number (if known)

Victim Notification System: Crime victims can register with the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system to receive automated notifications about an inmate's custody status, including release dates and transfers. This service is free and confidential.

How To Visit an Inmate In Santa Barbara County

Visitation with inmates in Santa Barbara County correctional facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Sheriff's Office to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections.

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
• Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the 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: Santa Barbara Main Jail:

• General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
• Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact the facility for specific times

Northern Branch Jail:

• General Population: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
• Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact the facility for specific times

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
• Locker key (if using facility lockers)
• Medication needed during visit (must be declared and approved)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Tools
• Drugs or alcohol
• Tobacco products
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $50

Dress Code:

• No revealing or provocative clothing
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No uniforms resembling law enforcement or correctional staff
• Shoes and shirts required
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)

Visit Types:

1. In-Person Non-Contact Visits:

   • Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
   • Duration: 30 minutes per visit
   • Frequency: Two visits per week for general population inmates

2. Video Visitation:

   • Available at both facilities
   • Must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
   • Duration: 30 minutes per session
   • Can be conducted remotely for approved visitors

3. Professional Visits:

   • Available for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
   • Extended hours available
   • Contact the facility directly to arrange

Visit Restrictions: Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended for inmates who:

• Are in disciplinary status
• Are in medical isolation
• Have violated visitation rules
• Are deemed security risks

For the most current visitation information, contact:

• Santa Barbara Main Jail: (805) 681-4260
• Northern Branch Jail: (805) 554-3100

How To Send Money to a Santa Barbara County Inmate

Santa Barbara County provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account:

Online Deposits:

1. Visit Access Corrections
2. Create an account or log in
3. Select "Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office" as the facility
4. Enter the inmate's information (name and booking number)
5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
6. Processing fees apply (typically $2.95 - $9.95 depending on amount)

Kiosk Deposits: Self-service kiosks are available in the lobby of both jail facilities:

• Cash only (bills only, no coins)
• Available during normal lobby hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily)
• No fee for cash deposits made at kiosks
• Receipt provided for all transactions

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order payable to "Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office"

2. Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order

3. Include a brief note with sender's name and address

4. Mail to:

   Santa Barbara County Main Jail
   Inmate Accounts
   4436 Calle Real
   Santa Barbara, CA 93110

   OR

   Northern Branch Jail
   Inmate Accounts
   2301 Black Road
   Santa Maria, CA 93458

Amount Limits:

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

What Money Can Be Used For: Funds deposited into an inmate's account may be used for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation fees
• Medical co-pays
• Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
• Release funds

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

• Bail or bond payments
• Fines or fees owed to the court
• Purchases for other inmates
• Items prohibited by jail policy

Important Notes:

• Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24-48 hours of receipt
• Cash is not accepted through the mail
• Personal checks are not accepted through any method
• All deposits are subject to verification before being credited to an inmate's account
• Suspicious transactions may be investigated and rejected

How To Send Jail Mail In Santa Barbara County

Maintaining written correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Santa Barbara County facilities requires adherence to specific guidelines established by the Sheriff's Office:

Mailing Address Format: All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Santa Barbara County Main Jail
4436 Calle Real
Santa Barbara, CA 93110

OR

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Northern Branch Jail
2301 Black Road
Santa Maria, CA 93458

Acceptable Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (see previous section for details)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")

Prohibited Items:

• Cash or personal checks
• Stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or labels
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Polaroid photos
• Hardcover books or magazines
• Any items with adhesives, glitter, or glue
• Plastic or laminated items
• Items containing illicit substances or contraband

Mail Inspection: All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate.

Publication Delivery: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as Amazon. Publications must comply with facility content restrictions and are subject to review before delivery.

E-Messages: Santa Barbara County offers electronic messaging through the Access Corrections system:

1. Create an account on the Access Corrections website
2. Purchase message credits
3. Compose and send messages to inmates
4. Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
5. Fees apply (approximately $0.50 per message)

Mail Restrictions: Mail may be rejected if it:

• Contains threats or plans for escape
• Describes the manufacture of weapons, drugs, or explosives
• Contains gang-related content or symbols
• Depicts nudity or sexually explicit material
• Advocates violence or criminal activity
• Contains coded messages

For questions regarding mail policies, contact:

• Santa Barbara Main Jail: (805) 681-4260
• Northern Branch Jail: (805) 554-3100

Lookup Inmate Records in Santa Barbara County

Who Is In Custody - Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office

California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS)