🚫 Spamhaus PBL

Guide to the Spamhaus PBL: why dynamic and cloud IPs are listed, and how to get removed if you run a legitimate mail server.

Type
IP Blocklist (RBL)
Hostname
pbl.spamhaus.org
Operator
Spamhaus ↗
Delist URL
Removal form ↗

ℹ️ About This Blocklist

The Spamhaus Policy Block List (PBL) lists IP ranges that should not send email directly to the internet: dynamic/residential ISP ranges, cloud VMs, and hosting ranges not provisioned for direct mail delivery.

What a Listing Means

This IP is in a range designated as a "policy block" — it's a residential, dynamic, or cloud IP that ISPs/hosting providers have stated should use a smarthost/relay rather than connecting directly to mail servers.

🔢 DNSBL Return Codes

When listed, the DNSBL returns one of these 127.x.x.x addresses. The specific code indicates the reason for the listing.

Return IP Meaning
127.0.0.10 PBL — listed by the ISP or provider themselves
127.0.0.11 PBL — listed by Spamhaus

✅ How to Request Delisting

If your IP is a dedicated mail server with a static IP, ISP-assigned PTR record, and legitimate mail sending use case, you can apply for PBL removal directly. Otherwise, configure your mail server to use your ISP's smarthost relay.

Request Removal from Spamhaus PBL ↗

📚 Official Documentation

Spamhaus PBL PBL removal form

🔍 Check Your IP or Domain Against Spamhaus PBL

Run a live blacklist check against all 17 blocklists we monitor, including Spamhaus PBL.

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