33-602.230. Institution Visits and Tours and Programs for the Public

(1) Individuals or groups of individuals desiring a tour of a correctional facility will submit a formal request to the warden outlining the following:

(a) Name, age and address of all individuals requesting approval of a tour,

(b) Purpose of tour,

(c) Date and time of requested tour, and

(d) Name and address of those to participate in the tour.

(2) Requests will be submitted to the warden of the facility to be toured as far in advance of the desired tour as possible so there will be sufficient time for review, approval, schedule adjustments and notification.

(3) Prior to any group touring a Department facility there shall be an orientation session conducted by a member of the facility staff. The orientation session shall consist of presentation of information and rules concerning the facility, the manner in which the tour will be conducted, the importance of an accurate count procedure, matters related to contraband, the importance of remaining with the group, limitations upon interactions with the inmate population, and other security matters. Any member of the group failing to adhere to the rules established for the tour shall be removed from the tour.

(4) The warden shall not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color or national origin, but otherwise may deny a requested tour for any reason where approval would cause an adverse impact on the security and orderly operation of the facility.

(5) The following guidelines shall be adhered to in conducting tours, in making presentations and in providing programs for the public.

(a) The warden, correctional officer chief or office administrator shall designate a staff member to supervise and coordinate tours, programs and presentations for each institution, facility or office. All tours, programs and presentations shall be scheduled by the administration so as not to interfere with or disrupt daily operations. The supervisor or coordinator shall be responsible for:

1. The scheduling of all tours, programs and presentations;

2. Providing appropriate supervision;

3. Advising outside sponsors of the guidelines contained in this section;

4. Ensuring that department personnel are physically present during the tour, presentation or program, along with the outside sponsor;

5. Answering questions of the group.

(b) Those outside visitors who are approved to participate in tours of department facilities or programs at various department locations shall be 18 years of age or older.

Rulemaking Authority 944.09 FS. Law Implemented 944.09, 944.23 FS. History–New 10-16-83, Formerly 33-5.12, Amended 7-27-89, 3-8-98, Formerly 33-5.012, Amended 4-25-02, 7-2-03, 10-22-13, 10-28-14.