Visitation at FCI Elkton

Step 1: Get on the Approved Visitor List

You cannot visit FCI Elkton until you are on the inmate’s approved visitor list. The process works like this:

1. The inmate submits a visitor request form listing your full name, date of birth, address, and relationship.
2. The BOP reviews the application and runs a background check.
3. If approved, you receive notice or the inmate tells you the outcome.
4. Once approved, you are on the list for all future visits unless removed.

You do not submit an application yourself. The inmate starts the process. If you have not heard back, ask the inmate to follow up with their case manager.

Step 2: Confirm Visiting Hours Before You Travel

BOP visiting hours can change due to facility operations, staffing, weather, or security concerns. Call (330) 420-6200 before every visit to confirm that visits are on schedule and to ask about any procedures specific to the unit where the inmate is housed.

For the official policy document, review the FCI Elkton visiting regulations at bop.gov/locations/institutions/elk/elk_visit.pdf. A Spanish version is also available at that site.

Arriving at the Facility

Bring your government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Expired IDs are not accepted.

Arrive on time. Late arrivals may not be admitted if the visiting session has already started.

Do not bring bags, purses, strollers, or personal items into the visiting room. Lockers or storage may be available near the entrance. Check with the facility when you call.

Security Screening

All visitors go through security screening. This typically includes a metal detector, possibly a pat-down, and inspection of any items brought in. The BOP may also use canine units as part of security operations.

Do not attempt to bring in food, drinks, tobacco, cell phones, cameras, or any unauthorized items. Doing so can result in your visit being denied and your removal from the approved visitor list.

Dress Code

BOP facilities enforce a dress code. Common reasons visitors are turned away:

• Clothing that resembles inmate uniforms (khaki, olive drab, or similar colors and styles)
• Revealing or form-fitting clothing
• Underwire bras (can trigger metal detectors)
• Excessive metal hardware on clothing or shoes
• See-through clothing

When in doubt, wear plain, solid-colored clothing without metal. Call (330) 420-6200 to ask about dress code specifics before you travel. Being turned away because of clothing is avoidable.

Children and Minors

Children must be accompanied by an authorized adult who is also on the inmate’s approved visitor list. Bring the child’s birth certificate. If you are not the parent, bring notarized guardianship or permission documents. Call the facility to confirm current requirements for minors before bringing children.

Special Visits

Attorney visits and clergy visits follow a separate process. Contact the facility at (330) 420-6200 to arrange professional visits. These are typically scheduled in advance and are not held during regular visiting hours.

All Visits Are Monitored

BOP visiting rooms are monitored and recorded. Do not discuss anything you would not want staff to hear. Attempting to pass items to or from the inmate can result in immediate termination of the visit and criminal charges.

Getting to FCI Elkton

FCI Elkton is in Lisbon, Ohio (Columbiana County) in northeast Ohio, roughly 75 miles southeast of Cleveland and 30 miles south of Youngstown. There is no public transit to the facility. Plan to travel by car and arrange lodging in advance if coming from a long distance. The Lisbon and Salem areas have hotels and motels within 20-30 minutes of the facility.