Lateral Offset from Access Point
The lateral offset of the mailbox should be close enough to the shoulder or curb or other access location to allow the mail carrier to deliver mail from the mail vehicle. This distance is a function of the road cross section. Figures 9-5 and 9-6 illustrate the lateral placement of mailboxes. There are three conditions for lateral offset of mailboxes:
- Delivery to Front Side:Mailbox is installed so that mail can be accessed from an all-weather surface or terrain adjacent to the travel lane. See Figure 9-5.
- Delivery to Back Side:Mailbox is installed so that the mail can be accessed from an all‑weather surface or terrain on the side of the mailbox away from the travel way. See Figure 9-6.
- Delivery Near Right-of-Way Line:TxDOT encourages the use of Neighbor Delivery and Collection Box Units (NDCBUs) at locations with numerous mailboxes, such as mobile home parks and apartments. Due to their size and weight, NDCBUs should be installed off of the highway right-of-way and on low volume intersecting roadways or on private property. If it is essential for a NDCBU to be located on the right-of-way, TxDOT must be contacted to designate an acceptable location, preferably outside the clear zone and directly against the right-of-way line. TxDOT is not responsible for the installation and maintenance of NDCBUs and the U.S. Postal Service should be contacted regarding installation.
Figure 9-5. Lateral Placement for Delivery to the Front Side
Figure 9-6. Lateral Placement for Delivery to the Back Side