Yes, it is illegal to put flyers in mailboxes right here in the United States. And it is not some local or state-specific rule or law we’re talking about; there is an actual law, and it is always enforced, too. So, if you’re thinking that you can get away with putting flyers in the mailboxes or posting them outside of these mailboxes, then just know that if authorities trace them back to you, then there will be some legal action taken against you. Plain and simple!
What’s the Actual Rule Here?
No doubt, it is true that pretty much a ton of people depend on flyers to get a small business, a garage sale, or a local event. That’s the old way of doing marketing, if you will. It still seems like a fast and handy way, so most people think that dropping a flyer in someone’s mailbox is okay. But the thing is, it isn’t always a good idea, and there is the legality side of it that you should know as well.
Just so you know, it is illegal to put any unstamped flyers, leaflets, or papers into a mailbox in the U.S., like without the permission of the postal service. It certainly does not make any difference if it is only one small flyer or a whole bundle. Just keep that in mind. For example, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has given a very clear indication that mail with correct postage is the only thing that can be put in a mailbox, and only authorized postal workers can put anything in there. This is regulated by U.S. Code Title 18, Section 1725, which is a federal law. Plain and simple!
So yes, if you put a flyer in a mailbox without postage, you’re breaking federal law.
What If You Stick It on the Outside?
Some people out there probably believe that if they attach a flyer to the side of the mailbox, clip it under the flag, or hang it on the post, it is fine. But the thing is: that is also not permitted. The mailbox, its post, and the flag are considered to be the components of the postal system.
If you don’t have that mailbox, or the owner hasn’t given you permission, you are not allowed to put something on it. As for mailboxes at residential houses that are not your property, better to stay away from them completely. Period!
What Happens If Someone Reports It?
Many aren’t sure if anyone actually gets in trouble for this, but yes, fines do happen. We can say that for sure! Like, USPS can issue penalties for every violation:
- Up to $5,000 per offense for individuals
- Up to $10,000 per offense for businesses
Just a single complaint by any homeowner or a postal worker can lead to these fines, and surely, if you’re thinking that you can get away with it, then you’re wrong. These are commonly enforced, too.
But Why Does USPS Enforce This Rule Strictly?
Though it might look like something insignificant, the regulation is there to ensure that mail remains secure and well-arranged. All the time! If you’re wondering why that is the case, well, mail that consists only of flyers without stamps may become a heap in which important mail is not visible, or even items are lost. As for people with houses, coming across some unsolicited advertising in their mail might also be something that makes them feel that their privacy is violated. In a way, this rule is like a hygiene measure to keep things neat and tidy with the mailboxes.
