The United States Postal Service advises that mailboxes be 41-45 inches off the ground, 6-8 inches back from the curb, and a minimum of 4 feet off the ground for city dwellers. Additionally, they request that everyone maintain a clear path to the mailbox so that the postman may readily access it during severe weather.
For the mailbox to remain upright, it is advised that it be buried 24 inches deep. Due to the fact that road and curb conditions vary from city to city and state to state, the USPS requests that individuals contact their local postmaster for approval. This approval would be for the site of the mailbox before it is installed, as well as its height and distance from the curb or dwelling.
For anyone acquiring a new mailbox, the Postmaster General’s stamp of approval should be present. The Postmaster General reviews every new mailbox design before it hits the market, so there is no reason not to use an approved mailbox. Individuals who insist on constructing their own mailboxes should consult their local postmaster to ensure that the mailbox fits the size, strength, and quality requirements outlined in the postal code.
