Pender CI Visiting Hours. How to Get Approved and Schedule a Visit

Step 1. Get on the Approved Visitor List

Walk-in visits are not allowed at Pender CI. All visitors need advance approval before they can schedule a session. Here is how the process works:

1. The person inside requests a blank visitor application and mails it to you.
2. You fill out the application completely and return it to the facility.
3. Adults 16 and older must attach a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
4. Minors under 16 must attach a copy of their birth certificate.
5. The facility reviews and processes the application.

The visitor list is open for enrollment every 6 months. Each inmate can have up to 18 approved visitors. If someone needs to be removed and replaced, that happens during the next enrollment window.

Start this process early. Processing takes time, and you cannot schedule a visit until your application is approved.

Step 2. Schedule the Visit

Once you are approved, call (910) 259-8735 or email [email protected] to schedule a session. Visiting hours at Pender CI are not published on the NC DAC website. The facility sets the schedule, and you must contact them directly to find out what times are open.

When you call or email, have the inmate’s full name and OPUS Number ready. This helps staff confirm your spot on the approved list and match you to the right person.

Visiting Hours

Visiting hours are not published online for Pender Correctional Institution. Call (910) 259-8735 or email [email protected] to confirm current available times before you make travel plans.

Hours can change without notice due to staffing, security events, or facility lockdowns. Always confirm before you drive to Burgaw.

Who Can Visit and How Often

Each approved visit session allows:

• Up to 3 visitors at one time
• One session per week per inmate
• Sessions last up to 2 hours

Children are welcome to visit but must be listed on the approved visitor application. Minors under 16 must have a birth certificate on file with the application. If someone other than a parent is bringing a minor to visit, contact the facility ahead of time at (910) 259-8735 to ask what documentation is required.

What to Bring

Bring only what you need. Leave everything else locked in your vehicle.

You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID to enter. Acceptable forms include:

• State driver’s license or ID card
• U.S. Passport or Passport Card
• U.S. Military ID

If you have metal implants or a medical device that affects how you go through a metal detector, bring a letter from your doctor explaining the condition. The facility accommodates these situations, but staff need to know in advance. A metal implant ID is also accepted as documentation.

Do not bring cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, or AI glasses. These are not permitted inside the facility.

Dress Code

Pender CI enforces NC DAC’s visitor dress code. A visit can be denied or ended early if your clothing does not comply. The following are not allowed:

• Halter tops, tube tops, strapless tops, or tank tops
• Bare midriffs or tops that expose the midsection
• Fishnet or see-through clothing
• Spandex
• Shorts, skirts, or dresses more than 3 inches above the kneecap
• Wave caps, doo rags, or bandanas
• Pants worn below the waist
• Clothing with gang affiliations, profanity, or other prohibited content

Wear clean, modest clothing. When in doubt, dress conservatively. If your clothing is flagged at the entrance, you may be turned away. There is no guarantee of a rescheduled visit if you are denied for a dress code violation.

Security Screening

All visitors go through a security screening before entering. This includes:

• Metal detector screening
• Pat search for anyone 16 and older
• Possible additional screening at officer discretion

Do not bring contraband onto facility property. Attempting to bring in drugs, alcohol, weapons, or other prohibited items is a felony. This applies to items left in your vehicle on facility property as well. Take this seriously.

Video Visits Through Getting Out

If you cannot make it to Burgaw, Pender CI offers video visits through the Getting Out Visits app. Download the app or access sessions at GettingOut.com. Set up a free account, find Pender Correctional Institution, and schedule a video session from there.

Video visits are a good option for families who live far away or cannot visit on available days.

What Happens During the Visit

Visits are held in the designated visitation area. During the visit:

• Stay in the area where staff direct you
• Do not exchange items with the person inside unless specifically authorized by facility staff in advance
• Conduct yourself calmly and respectfully
• Follow all officer instructions

Visits can be ended early if visitors do not follow the rules. A terminated visit due to misconduct can affect future visit privileges.

If You Have a Medical Need

If you use a wheelchair, cane, oxygen, or have a condition that affects security screening, contact the facility before your visit at (910) 259-8735. Let them know in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made. Bring a letter from your doctor about any implant or condition that triggers the metal detector.

Getting to Burgaw

Pender Correctional Institution is at 906 Penderlea Highway in Burgaw, the county seat of Pender County in southeastern North Carolina. Burgaw is about 30 miles north of Wilmington and about 70 miles south of Jacksonville. Gas stations, restaurants, and lodging are available in Burgaw and nearby Wilmington. If you are traveling from out of town, book lodging in advance, especially around holidays.

Use the physical address for navigation: 906 Penderlea Highway, Burgaw, NC 28425. If your GPS has trouble, call (910) 259-8735 for directions.

Holiday and Schedule Changes

Visiting schedules can change around holidays or during facility security events. Always call or email ahead before traveling. If you have a special circumstance, such as an out-of-town emergency visit or a request to come outside normal hours, contact the facility in advance.

Special Populations at Pender CI

Pender CI holds men in the ACDP (Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Program) and a horticultural therapy program for people with developmental disabilities. If your family member is enrolled in one of these programs, their daily schedule may affect phone and visit availability. Contact the facility at (910) 259-8735 to ask about how program schedules interact with visiting times.