Jail Standards & Inspections
Find Idaho jail contacts first, then learn about the voluntary standards and inspection program.
Managing Idaho’s jail system justly and professionally
One of the most important roles of Idaho’s sheriffs is managing the 37 jails throughout the state. Sheriff offices and jail administrative staff handle safety protocols, inmate transportation and processing, food services, recreation protocols, visitation management and many other areas of jail operations.
Idaho’s sheriffs take pride in achieving and maintaining high professional standards while working cooperatively with law enforcement entities and the judicial system throughout the state.
Jail Standards Committee
The Jail Standards Committee consists of sheriffs, jail commanders, six commissioners, an Idaho Department of Correction representative and a POST representative.
The committee meets at least twice each year to discuss updates to the Jail Standards Manual, the Jail Standards Inspection Form and other issues regarding existing jail problems. Jail Standards were implemented in 1978 to professionalize Idaho jails and help forestall litigation regarding constitutional conditions.
Categories within the standards include administration, organization and management, fiscal management, personnel, training, facility information systems, fire safety, security and control, food service, sanitation, hygiene, health care, inmate rights, discipline, communication, visiting, admission and release, classification, inmate services, physical plant and work release.
Annual jail inspections
37 jails inspected annually
Each of Idaho’s 37 jails is inspected annually for compliance with jail standards. The inspection process includes 328 recommended or mandatory inspection categories.
Compliance and improvement
If a facility does not pass, the inspector works with jail staff to develop a compliance plan. Facilities that meet standards receive an annual Certificate of Compliance.
Need help finding the right resource?
The ISA team can connect you with the appropriate county sheriff, program, event, membership resource, or association contact.