Can You Bring a Water Bottle to Court or Jury Duty? (2026)
Short answer: Plastic or empty bottles are usually fine; glass is often refused. Each courthouse sets its own security rules, so check yours before you go.
At court (visitors, defendants, witnesses)
Security may ask you to empty or drink from a bottle, or refuse glass. Drinks are usually not allowed in courtrooms.
At jury duty
Most jury rooms allow a water bottle, and many have water fountains or vending machines.
Tips
- Bring it empty and fill it inside.
- Metal bottles usually pass but are x-rayed.
104 of the 399 large county courthouses we track ban phones for the general public. Electronics rules follow the phone rule, so look up your courthouse: phone policy by county or the phone checker.
Other Items
- a Laptop
- a Smartwatch (Apple Watch)
- AirPods or Headphones
- Food and Snacks
- a Book or Kindle
- a Phone Charger or Power Bank
- Medication
- a Vape or E-Cigarette
- a Pocket Knife
- Pepper Spray
- an Umbrella
- Your Children
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you bring a water bottle to court?
Plastic or empty bottles are usually fine; glass is often refused. Security may ask you to empty or drink from a bottle, or refuse glass. Drinks are usually not allowed in courtrooms.
Can you bring a water bottle to jury duty?
Most jury rooms allow a water bottle, and many have water fountains or vending machines.