There are two sets of rules to comply with when moving a mailbox: guidelines of the U.S. Postal Service and most local governments. Although there are differences from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, there are common rules regarding moving a mailbox.
Postal Service Rules
The Postal Service permits moving a mailbox, but it must be placed in a location that is readily accessible by a mail carrier. For example, roadside mailboxes must in a location where mail carriers can place mail from their delivery vehicles.
Roads Without Curbs
A typical local rule requires a mailbox to be offset the entire width of a shoulder off the road with an addition of a specific number of inches.
Curbed Streets
On any street with a curb, a mailbox must be relocated a specified number of inches from the face of the curbside. The typical space is 10 inches or a bit less.
Resources
Before relocating a mailbox, you should call both the post office and city hall for the applicable rules before moving a mailbox.
Warning
Improperly relocating a mailbox can result in a postal patron's mail delivery being suspended.
Resources
Writer Bio
Mike Broemmel began writing in 1982. He is an author/lecturer with two novels on the market internationally, "The Shadow Cast" and "The Miller Moth." Broemmel served on the staff of the White House Office of Media Relations. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and political science from Benedictine College and a Juris Doctorate from Washburn University. He also attended Brunel University, London.