The San Diego Sheriff Department estimates the county may require 2,000 additional jail beds by the year 2005, provided the county does not have State prison inmates "redirected" to county jails as a result of the State's prisoner glut. California's three-strikes legislation is challenging jail administrators because it is responsible for locking up habitual criminals for a long time. The result is chronic overcrowding, and San Diego's jail system is currently operating under court-ordered population limits in five of its seven facilities. Jails attempt to maintain a population balance through innovative early release programs, including electronic surveillance, work release, and work furlough. Staffing issues associated with jail operations in San Diego County are considered, the operation of the jail system and specific detention facilities is discussed, and data are provided on county jail inmates. Cost and security aspects of providing adequate inmate care and future trends in these areas are addressed. 1 figure and 8 photographs