Incoming Mail Policy

All incoming mail will be opened and checked for contraband; however, inmate mail will not be read unless there is good reason to believe that the contents contain information relating to escape plans, criminal activities (in or out of jail), violation of facility rules, coded language, or racially inflammatory information. Legal mail that is mail from the attorney, the courts, the Sheriff or the media may only be opened in the presence of the inmate.

The following items will not be accepted through the mail service:

• Cash
• Cardboard
• Plastics, or anything laminated
• Anything GANG related (Photos, colors, writing, symbols)
• Drugs
• Two-ply cards will be separated (they are discouraged)
• Cards larger than 5×7
• Blank paper, cards, envelopes, stamps
• Staples and paper clips
• Items having suspicious stains or markings
• Letters or envelopes having stickers or labels on them
• Hard bound books
• Padded envelopes
• Artwork done with wax, water colors or heavy crayons
• Flowers
• Envelopes or items with tape
• Instant camera photos (i.e. Polaroid)
• Polaroid’s or photographs that are obscene or sexually suggestive, such as nude or partially nude persons
• Photographs larger than 4×6 (can only receive 5 at a time)
• Food items
• Packages
• Envelopes with stickers, lipstick, perfume etc.

Inmates may receive paperback books only through the US Postal Service if they are mailed directly from the publisher. They will not be accepted if sent by a bookstore or any other person. No hardbound books will be accepted.

Any items received in the mail that do not meet these requirements will be returned to the sender.

If you are sending mail to an inmate, envelopes must include inmate’s personal ID# and a return address.

All Mail is to be addressed as follows:

San Benito County Jail
Inmate Name and ID Number
P.O. Box 920
Hollister CA 95024-0920