Safely Surrender a Baby
The Safely Surrendered Baby law allows a parent or person with lawful custody to safely surrender a baby confidentially, and without fear of prosecution for child abandonment, at a “safe surrender site” within 72 hours of birth.
Who is eligible?
A parent or person with lawful custody of a newborn (within 72 hours of birth) may use this service.
When and where is this service offered?
For Safe Surrender Site locations throughout California call:
(1-877-BABYSAF) or (1-877-222-9723).
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
24 hours per day
345 S. Halcyon Road
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
24 hours per day
1911 Johnson Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
24 hours per day
1010 Murray Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
24 hours per day
1100 Las Tablas Road
Templeton, CA 93465
FAQS
No. The law allows another person to safely surrender the baby if the person has permission from the parent.
A parent who is unable or unwilling to care for their baby can safely surrender the baby within three (3) days of birth. All that is required is that the baby be given to an on-duty employee of a hospital or safe surrender site in California. A confidentially coded ID bracelet will be placed on the baby’s ankle and a matching bracelet offered to the surrendering person should the parent want the baby back within 14 days of surrender.
The following are guidelines for Safely Surrendering a Baby:
- Surrender is within three (3) days of the baby’s birth
- Surrender is at “safe surrender site” – includes hospitals, fire stations, or other safe surrender sites
- Baby must be given to an on-duty employee
- Confidentially coded ID bracelet will be placed on the baby’s ankle and a matching bracelet offered to the surrendering person
- Does not require that names be given when the baby is surrendered
- Allows the parent or surrendering person to go free without any questions asked once they receive the bracelet
- Allows the parent or surrendering person up to 14 days from the time of surrender to bring back the coded bracelet to the safe surrender site to reclaim the baby
Under the law, a parent or surrendering person has 14 days to reclaim the baby. They should bring their copy of the coded bracelet back to the safe surrender site.
After receiving a confidentially coded ankle bracelet, the baby is examined and given medical treatment, if needed. The baby is then placed in a foster or pre-adoptive home.
Once the parent or surrendering person has safely turned over the baby, they are free to go, without any questions asked.
None. No information is required but the person surrendering the baby will be given a medical information questionnaire to complete. Completion of questionnaire is voluntary, although the information regarding family medical history can assist in properly caring for the baby.
