Oklahoma Jail Standards Act

Okla. Stat. Tit. 74 O.S. § 192, et. seq.

Requirements for Municipal Detention and Lockup Facilities

OMAG is committed to supporting our member municipalities in understanding and complying with the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act, which went into effect on April 28, 2025. This important legislation sets forth comprehensive standards for the operation of detention and lockup facilities across the state.

Disclaimer: This summary is not comprehensive. For complete requirements and legal details, please refer to the Oklahoma state statute.

🔹 General Compliance

  • All detention and lockup facilities must comply with the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act.
  • Detention and lockup facilities will undergo annual inspections by the State Department of Health.
  • Operational policies are required, with clear review schedules and assigned personnel.

🔹 Facility Requirements

Space & Sanitation

  • Minimum 40 sq. ft. per first inmate, 20 sq. ft. per additional inmate.
  • 1 toilet, shower, and basin per 20 inmates.
  • Detention and lockup facilities must be clean and sanitary, with adequate bedding, clothing, and three daily meals (two hot).

Supervision & Staffing

  • For detention and lockup facilities, 24/7 inmate supervision is required.

Safety Standards

  • Emergency exits, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and hourly visual checks are mandatory.
  • Must include first aid kits and fire-safe mattresses.

🔹 Inmate Management & Care

  • Required policies must cover admissions, use of force, supervision, escapes, discipline, grievances, visitation, sanitation, fire safety, and food service.
  • Serious incidents—such as deaths, escapes, or suicide attempts—must be reported to the State Department of Health within one business day.

Medical and Mental Health

  • Written healthcare plans must include intake screening, emergency care, and medication protocols.

🔹 Classification & Exceptions

Detention and lockup facilities must implement classification systems based on threat level, behavior, health needs, and gender. Sentenced and unsentenced inmates should be housed separately when possible.

📎 Resources & Support

OMAG is Here to Help

As a member-owned risk pool, OMAG is preparing additional tools, training, and guidance to support Oklahoma municipalities comply with the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act. Together, we can ensure safe, compliant, and well-managed detention and lockup facilities for every community.