City jail · Santa Monica
Santa Monica City Jail
The Santa Monica Police Department runs a jail in the city's Public Safety Facility for short-term holds after arrest.
About Santa Monica City Jail
People arrested by Santa Monica police are booked into the city jail. From there they are released, taken to court or moved to the Los Angeles County Sheriff.
Since stays are short, a person may show up in LASD's search within a day or two if they aren't released.
How to look up someone at this facility
- Go to the official Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) website and open its inmate search.
- For a recent arrest, also check the Santa Monica Police Department. People at city jails may not show up in the county search yet.
- Search by full legal name. Add a date of birth if the tool allows it.
- Write down the booking number. You'll need it for mail, money deposits and visits.
What families should know
Stays at Santa Monica City Jail are usually short. In California, a person held in custody generally must be brought before a judge within 48 hours, not counting weekends and court holidays. If they aren't released, expect them to be moved to a Los Angeles County jail.
For bail and release questions, see our California bail basics. This site doesn't provide legal advice. Talk to a licensed attorney or the public defender's office about a specific case.
Location
Santa Monica City Jail is in Santa Monica, Los Angeles County, California. View on a map. Check the official Santa Monica Police Department website for the current visitor entrance and mailing address.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if someone is at Santa Monica City Jail?
Check the Santa Monica Police Department's official resources first. If the person has been held more than a day or two, also search the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) inmate locator, since people at city jails are often moved to county custody.
Can I visit someone at Santa Monica City Jail?
Visits follow the rules posted by the Santa Monica Police Department. Most Southern California jails require visits to be scheduled ahead of time and require a valid government-issued photo ID. Confirm the current schedule on the official website before you travel.
How do I send money to someone at Santa Monica City Jail?
Use only the deposit methods listed on the Santa Monica Police Department's official website. These usually include online, kiosk or money order options. Never send money to someone who contacts you claiming they can get a person released.
Is SoCal Inmate Info affiliated with Santa Monica City Jail?
No. We are an independent informational resource and are not affiliated with any law enforcement or government agency.