Yes, It’s Illegal to Put Flyers in Mailboxes Here Are Other Ways to Distribute Them Legally | UPrinting
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Yes, It’s Illegal to Put Flyers in Mailboxes Here Are Other Ways to Distribute Them Legally

Written by UPrinting - Updated on October 22, 2024

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Last updated on October 22nd, 2024 at 05:07 pm


With the right strategy, flyers can be a powerful marketing tool to
help you connect with your target audience. Plus, they are excellent
for large-scale distribution because of their affordability and
versatility. However, it’s not a good idea to stick up flyers anywhere
you can think of. First, people may find it intrusive, and second, you
wouldn’t want to break any law.

Is it illegal to put flyers in mailboxes?

Yes, it is illegal to put flyers in mailboxes. Placing any type
of mail or marketing collateral in a mailbox without official
postage and not sent through the US Postal Service is considered
a federal offense that comes with a fine of up to $10,000.

According to the USPS website, only authorized USPS delivery
personnel are allowed to place items in a mailbox, which by law,
“is intended only for receipt of postage-paid US mail.”

Additionally, many local communities have a law or ordinance
that prohibits individuals, businesses, and organizations from
leaving flyers on every door in a neighborhood.

What happens if you violate the mailbox restriction law?

Individuals could face a fine of up to $5,000 per infraction,
while organizations, such as restaurants and stores, could pay
up to $10,000 for every violation of the mailbox restriction
law.

If you think you can get around the law by affixing flyers to
mailboxes, note that this is also considered illegal, as it may
block the delivery of mail.

The mailbox restriction law applies to all types of mailboxes,
including commercial, post office, and residential boxes.

How do you distribute flyers legally?

Here are some things to keep in mind if you want to print and
distribute flyers without breaking any law or being intrusive to the
public:

  • When handing out flyers in the street, do not obstruct the
    entrance to any buildings. In addition, do not harass or force
    passersby to take your flyers if they’re not interested.

  • If you want to distribute flyers in your neighborhood, check
    out public buildings and local libraries with community
    bulletin boards. Oftentimes, you can post without issues here.

  • As long as you’re not in a no-soliciting zone, you can hang
    your flyers in public restrooms, utility poles, daycare
    centers, and visitors’ centers.

  • Ask local businesses, such as coffee shops and bars, if you
    can post your flyers on their bulletin boards or windows.

  • You can insert flyers in newspapers, mailed bills, and invoices. Or include flyers in shipments to customers.

  • Hand them out to event attendees.

  • You can use presentation folders or pocket folders to hold your flyers.

  • Consider hiring a professional flyer distributor.

What are some legal alternatives to flyers?

Do you want to explore other ways to get your message through the
door? If yes, then consider these legal alternatives to flyers:

Newspaper inserts. Also called preprint, these promotional
inserts are often found in Sunday newspapers.

Door hangers. These cardboard or plastic signs often come in
rectangular shape and are hung from a door handle. In some
cases, they are a better option than flyers because they are
more noticeable and durable.

Direct mailing. Reach out to your customers using EDDM-compliant
postcards that fulfill the USPS requirements. EDDM, which stands
for “every door direct mail,” are postcards that eliminate the
need for a postage permit or even a mailing list.

Conclusion

Placing unauthorized items in someone’s mailbox is a legal offense.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can distribute your flyers
legally.
However, if you’re looking for flyer alternatives, door hangers and direct mailing services, specifically EDDM-compliant
postcards, may even be a better option than door-to-door flyer distribution.


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