How Far Do You Put a Mailbox From the Road?
- Installing a mailbox is a relatively simple procedure, provided you follow the guidelines set forth by the United States Postal Service and individual manufacturers' installation instructions. USPS customers are required to contact their local office before installing a new mailbox. This step is essential for verifying that the mailbox meets USPS standards and to ensure that local or regional guidelines are taken into account in addition to the blanket standards that apply nationwide.
- According to the USPS website, install the mailbox with the bottom of the box at a vertical height of between 41 to 45 inches from the road surface. This will make the mailbox easily accessible from a car window for your local route driver. If you are unable to achieve this standard in the particular locale where your mailbox is situated, contact your local postmaster to discuss other possible solutions or locations.
- Additionally, the USPS requires that mailboxes be situated within 6 to 8 inches from the road (measuring from the edge of the road or curb to the door of the mailbox). This is to enable your local route driver to easily reach the mailbox without causing any kind of vehicular obstruction. Follow the mailbox manufacturers' installation instructions to set your mailbox in such a way that it continuously complies with the USPS guidelines.
- There are a few other USPS guidelines that you should be aware of as you install a new mailbox. While you can attach a secondary box for private newspaper delivery, it cannot be attached to the actual mailbox, extend beyond the mailbox door, interfere with mail delivery or display any advertising. Your actual mailbox is also restricted from displaying any kind of advertisement.