DOC Jail Inspections

The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) Jail Inspector team provides coordinated state services to local governments regarding county correctional facilities, lock-up facilities, municipal temporary holding facilities, and juvenile detention facilities throughout Oregon.

DOC's authority to conduct jail inspections is established in Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 291, Division 167, and state law, including Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 169.070 . These authorities direct DOC to inspect local confinement facilities and assist local jurisdictions in meeting operational and safety standards.

DOC designates staff to support local jurisdictions by:

• Providing technical assistance for the planning and operation of county correctional facilities.
• Inspecting facilities to assess compliance with standards governing safety and operations.
• Taking appropriate action when facilities do not meet required standards.
• Reviewing plans for construction or major renovation of correctional, lock-up, temporary holding, and juvenile detention facilities, and providing safety and security recommendations.

Through inspections, collaboration, and technical assistance, the DOC Jail Inspector team promotes safe facility operations and consistent standards across Oregon.

Contact the Jail Inspector Team

DOC maintains a centralized email account for jail inspection inquiries and information requests:
DOCJailInspectionSupport@doc.oregon.gov

County partners, facility administrators, and other stakeholders may use this email to request technical assistance, submit documentation, ask questions about standards, or coordinate inspection-related matters.