City jail · Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa City Jail
The Costa Mesa Police Department holds people for short periods after arrest at its city jail.
About Costa Mesa City Jail
Costa Mesa's jail is a short-term holding facility. People who are not released are moved to the Orange County Sheriff's Intake Release Center.
How to look up someone at this facility
- Go to the official Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) website and open its inmate search.
- For a recent arrest, also check the Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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 Orange 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
Costa Mesa City Jail is in Costa Mesa, Orange County, California. View on a map. Check the official Costa Mesa Police Department website for the current visitor entrance and mailing address.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if someone is at Costa Mesa City Jail?
Check the Costa Mesa Police Department's official resources first. If the person has been held more than a day or two, also search the Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) inmate locator, since people at city jails are often moved to county custody.
Can I visit someone at Costa Mesa City Jail?
Visits follow the rules posted by the Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa City Jail?
Use only the deposit methods listed on the Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa City Jail?
No. We are an independent informational resource and are not affiliated with any law enforcement or government agency.