Letters and envelopes
LASD states that envelopes and paper must be free of debris, illegal substances, perfume or cologne, powders, lipstick and dried liquids. Mail that does not follow LASD rules may be returned to the sender.
LASD custody resource
LA County Inmate Mail & Packages Guide
Use current LASD mail rules before sending letters, books, publications, care packages or money. Include the person’s name and booking number, and confirm the current custody location when needed.
Submit an Inmate InquiryHow LASD says to address general inmate mail
LASD’s public custody guidance lists a general mailing destination for incarcerated male and female inmates. Include the inmate’s name and booking number exactly as shown in the custody record.
Inmate Name, Booking NumberP.O. Box 86164, Terminal AnnexLos Angeles, CA 90086-0164
Current LASD mail and package guidance
Books, periodicals and publications
LASD states that books, periodicals and publications must be sent directly from a bookstore or publisher. The public custody rules also list limits and restrictions, including no hard covers or metal or plastic binding.
Packages and care packages
Do not assume a package can be mailed directly. LASD’s mail rules list parcel restrictions, while its Inmate Services page links to an approved care-package vendor. Use the source for the permitted method before ordering or sending anything.
Money sent by mail
Money is not the same as ordinary mail. LASD lists specific rules for mailed deposits, including a $200 maximum and approved check or money-order methods. For online deposits and account questions, use the inmate accounts guide.
Returned or rejected mail
LASD states that mail or parcels received contrary to its guidelines may be returned intact to the sender. Review the LASD rules before resending an item.
Mail contact
For questions about LASD mail regulations, the public custody page lists the Mail Room Supervisor.
(213) 893-5874Frequently asked questions
Related custody resources
Mail addressing rules vary by facility. Confirm the inmate's current facility address before sending any mail or packages.
Sources
For facility-specific mail addressing, see the Men's Central Jail mail and packages guide or the Twin Towers Correctional Facility mail guide.