To bring order to the growing presence of dispensing boxes across the city, the Prague City Council has approved a new framework outlining how and where these boxes can be installed on public land.

The initiative reflects a growing need to balance the convenience of self-service parcel pickup with the preservation of Prague’s public spaces. The regulations aim to eliminate clutter and prevent interference with pedestrian movement, traffic, and the city’s architectural landscape.

“Dispensing boxes are a useful service for residents and reduce traffic congestion, but their placement must be respectful of public space,” said Petr Hlaváček, Deputy Mayor for Spatial Development. “I see this agreement with operators as a meaningful step forward.”

The new framework prioritizes integration of parcel boxes into building façades, supermarket entrances, or transportation hubs. These locations are seen as the least intrusive and most accessible.

If those options are unavailable, alternative placements will be considered—but only if they don’t block pedestrian access, obstruct architectural features, or contribute to visual pollution.

“Without rules, parcel boxes can cause damage, create noise, and harm the city’s visual character,” said Zdeněk Hřib, Deputy Minister for Transport. “The new standards protect both utility and the urban environment.”

Currently, most dispensing boxes are placed outside city-owned land, giving local authorities limited control over their appearance and impact. With the new policy, that’s set to change.

“We don’t oppose the boxes on city property,” said Adam Zábranský, Councilor for Property. “But we want it done properly. That’s why I’m glad we’ve approved these rules.”

In the future, the city plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with major box operators to expand these standards even to non-city plots. The idea is to encourage companies to voluntarily comply with the guidelines, even where the city has no direct authority.

“We view these boxes as part of the city’s infrastructure,” said Ondřej Boháč, Director of IPR Prague. “They’re helpful, but only if designed and placed with care. The new rules set clear boundaries for where they belong—and where they don’t.”

Under the agreement, the city would offer suitable land for installations, while operators would commit to adapting their designs and technology to match the character of each location.

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