DPW Officials Clarify Mailbox Policy for the Winter

Earlier this week, the Vernon Department of Public Works clarified the rules on basketball goals on public streets in anticipation of plowing season.

On Friday, it did so with mailboxes.

Here is the official policy:

While plow truck drivers make every effort to avoid mailboxes, they do, on occasion, hit or knock one over. Operators must report these incidents to their supervisor. It is also possible that mailboxes can be knocked over by heavy snow without the operator's knowledge.

It is the Town's policy to replace a mailbox struck by a town vehicle if the mailbox was mounted on a sturdy post and located according to U.S. Postal Service standards. Once it has been determined that the Town is at fault, the mailbox will be replaced with either a plain white or black regulation mailbox and a pressure-treated post (if applicable). The post office will not deliver mail until the mailbox is replaced. These standards are summarized as follows:

• The box should be 3.5 - 4 feet from ground level to the bottom of the box.

• The face of the box should be flush with the back of the curb or set back 6 - 12 inches from the edge of the road.

• All mailboxes should have a handle, a flag, and the house number on the righthand side as you face it from the street.

• Residents must keep the approach to their mailbox clear of obstructions to allow safe access for delivery. If USPS employees are impeded in reaching a mail receptacle, the Postmaster may withdraw delivery service.

• Curbside mailboxes must be placed to allow safe and convenient delivery by carriers without leaving their vehicles.