Kays Tower Dallas County Jail visitation provides families and friends with two ways to connect with inmates: in-person visits at the facility and remote video visits from home. The South Tower, officially named the Suzanne Lee Kays Detention Facility, is located at 111 West Commerce Street in Dallas, Texas. This medium-security jail houses thousands of inmates and follows strict rules to ensure safety and order during all visits. Whether you plan to visit in person or online, knowing the hours, dress code, ID requirements, and booking steps helps avoid delays or denials. This page covers everything you need to know about scheduling, preparing, and completing a successful visit at Kays Tower.
Visitation Hours and Scheduling Rules
In-person visitation at Kays Tower runs on weekends only. On Saturdays, visits happen from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visitors must arrive by 1:30 p.m. on both days to allow time for security checks. The lobby opens at 7:30 a.m. on Saturdays for early check-in. Each visit lasts 30 minutes, and only two visitors are allowed per inmate per session. Inmates can receive up to two in-person visits per week, as set by Dallas County policy since 2011.
Remote video visitation is available every day of the week. Sessions can last up to 45 minutes and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance using the Securus Connect portal. There is no limit on how many video visits an inmate can have each week, as long as they don’t conflict with work or program schedules. Video visits cost $3.25 per session, paid by credit card when booking.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
Before heading to Kays Tower, make sure you have a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. Children under 12 are not allowed in the visitation lobby, even if accompanied by an adult. All visitors must pass through a metal detector and may be scanned for prohibited items. Mobile phones, cameras, recording devices, bags, and food are not allowed inside.
Dress code rules are strict. Wear business-casual clothing: no sleeveless shirts, shorts, jeans, caps, open-toe shoes, or revealing outfits. Clothing with offensive language, symbols, or gang-related markings will result in denial of entry. Prohibited items will be confiscated and not returned. Arrive early to complete screening and orientation before your session begins.
Booking a Remote Video Visit
To schedule a video visit, go to the Securus Connect website and create an account. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and booking number, which you can find using the Dallas County Jail Lookup System. Upload a clear photo of your government-issued ID and answer a short security questionnaire. Book your session at least three days in advance. Choose a time that works for you—video visits are available daily, including evenings and holidays.
Payment is required at the time of booking. The fee is $3.25 per visit and is non-refundable, even if the visit is canceled or missed. You’ll receive a confirmation email with login details. On the day of your visit, log in 10 minutes early using a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and stable internet connection. The system will guide you through the check-in process.
Visitor Approval and Card Management
Only people listed on the inmate’s approved visitor card can visit. The card includes family members and close friends. To add someone, the inmate must submit a written request to the Visitation Services Office. Changes can only be made once every 90 days. For urgent additions, such as a medical caregiver, a notarized letter and approval from a classification officer are required.
Visitor cards are reviewed during intake and updated monthly. If you’re unsure whether you’re approved, call the jail information line at 214-962-5800. Always confirm your status before traveling to the facility. Unapproved visitors will be turned away, even if they arrive on time with proper ID.
Finding an Inmate’s Status and Location
Use the Dallas County Jail Lookup System to find current inmates. Search by name, date of birth, or booking number. The system shows mugshots, charges, bond amounts, court dates, housing unit, and expected release dates. It updates in real time as new bookings occur. This tool is free and available 24/7 online.
You can also use VINELink, a national victim and inmate information service. Enter the inmate’s name or case number to get alerts about custody changes, court hearings, or release dates. Both tools help you plan visits and stay informed about the inmate’s status.
Facility Overview: Kays Tower and the Lew Sterrett Justice Center
Kays Tower is part of the Lew Sterrett Justice Center, which includes the North Tower, West Tower, and South Tower. All three are located at 111 West Commerce Street, next to the Frank Crowley Courts Building. The South Tower, opened in 2005, focuses on medium-security inmates and offers vocational training programs. It regularly houses between 3,000 and 3,500 people.
The North Tower, built in 1975, holds about 1,400 inmates. The West Tower, opened in 1992, specializes in non-violent offenders and has a medical wing. All towers share administrative services and intake procedures managed by the Sheriff’s Office Central Processing Unit. Despite separate housing, visitation rules are consistent across all facilities.
Inmate Services and Daily Operations
Inmates at Kays Tower have access to commissary services, where they can buy snacks, hygiene products, and prepaid phone cards. Families can send money through Western Union or online portals. Mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and the correct mailing address: P.O. Box 1000, Dallas, TX 75202. All mail is inspected for contraband before delivery.
The jail offers educational and vocational programs, including GED classes and job training in partnership with local colleges. Inmates can also request medical care, legal materials, and religious services. These programs aim to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.
Property Release and Inmate Belongings
If an inmate needs personal items released, call the warrant information line at 214-761-9026. Provide the inmate’s full name and booking number. Property releases are processed for all incoming inmates, whether items were stored in the vault or not. If the inmate hasn’t been assigned a housing unit, a temporary release form is signed and coordinated with intake staff.
All released items are logged in the Property Management System. Families receive a receipt with the date, time, and description of each item. This ensures transparency and accountability. Do not bring personal items during visitation—only approved visitors may handle property releases.
Recent Policy Updates and Capacity Planning
Dallas County continues to evaluate jail capacity due to growing inmate populations. In 2022, a feasibility study reviewed options like building a new 5,000-bed facility, expanding the North Tower by 1,200 beds, or converting unused courtrooms into housing. Costs range from $85 million for expansion to over $200 million for a new jail. Public hearings are scheduled to gather community input on traffic, budget, and rehabilitation impacts.
These discussions may affect future visitation policies, staffing levels, and facility access. However, current rules remain in effect. Visitors should check the official Dallas County Sheriff’s website for updates before planning trips.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For questions about visitation, call the Kays Tower information line at 214-962-5800. The main address is 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202. Visit the official Dallas County Sheriff’s Department website for forms, policies, and real-time updates. Use the jail lookup tool to verify inmate status and schedule visits confidently.
Related Search Terms and Additional Resources
If you’re looking for broader public records or background checks, consider these related services. They may help with locating individuals, verifying identities, or accessing court documents. Always use official sources when dealing with legal or detention matters.
- Four Letter Girl Names
- Resident Phone Number Lookup
- Clark County Sheriff Inmate Search
- Carson City Prison Inmate Search
Frequently Asked Questions
Visiting a loved one at Kays Tower can raise many questions. Below are answers to the most common concerns about hours, rules, booking, and preparation. These responses are based on current Dallas County policies and official jail procedures.
Can I visit an inmate at Kays Tower during the week?
No, in-person visits are only allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday visits are not permitted under current Dallas County rules. However, remote video visits are available every day, including weekdays, evenings, and holidays. You can schedule a video visit with at least 72 hours’ notice through the Securus Connect portal. This option offers more flexibility and avoids travel to the facility. Make sure you’re on the approved visitor list and have a valid ID ready for verification.
What happens if I arrive late for my visit?
If you arrive after 1:30 p.m. on Saturday or Sunday, you will not be processed for an in-person visit. The cutoff time allows enough time for security screening before the visitation window closes. Late arrivals are turned away, even if the visit was previously approved. For video visits, log in at least 10 minutes early. Missing your session may result in losing the $3.25 fee, as it is non-refundable. Always plan to arrive early to avoid delays.
Can children visit inmates at Kays Tower?
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the visitation lobby. This rule applies to both in-person and video visits. The policy is in place for safety and security reasons. If you have a child over 12, they must have their own government-issued photo ID and be listed on the visitor card. Minors without proper ID will be denied entry. Consider video visitation if you need to include younger family members in communication.
How often can an inmate receive visitors?
Inmates can have up to two in-person visits per calendar week, each lasting 30 minutes. Video visits have no weekly limit, as long as they don’t interfere with the inmate’s work or program schedule. This allows more frequent contact through remote options. Visitor cards can only be updated once every 90 days, so plan changes carefully. Urgent additions require notarized letters and officer approval.
What should I do if my visit is denied?
If your visit is denied, first check that you have a valid photo ID, are dressed appropriately, and are on the approved visitor list. Denials often result from missing documents, dress code violations, or late arrival. Call 214-962-5800 to ask for clarification. You can reapply for visitation after correcting the issue. Keep records of all communications and requests for future reference.
Is there a way to send money to an inmate at Kays Tower?
Yes, you can send money through Western Union or the jail’s online payment system. Use the inmate’s full name and booking number when making a deposit. Funds are added to their commissary account, which they can use for snacks, hygiene items, and phone cards. Avoid sending cash or checks by mail, as they may be lost or delayed. Always verify the recipient’s details before sending money.
How do I know if an inmate has been released?
Use the Dallas County Jail Lookup System or VINELink to check an inmate’s status. These tools show real-time updates on custody, court dates, and release information. You can also call the jail information line at 214-962-5800. Sign up for email or text alerts on VINELink to get notified of changes. This helps you stay informed without needing to search manually each time.