Mailbox Damage Policy

In order to provide a fair and uniform resolution to incidents involving mailboxes damaged by a Town snowplow the Town of Salem adheres to the following policy concerning repair/replacement of mailboxes.

 

It is a job of the Public Works Department to remove snow from road surfaces. Snow being thrown by a plow can significantly impact the mailbox and cause damage.  There is nothing that can be done to prevent snow from being thrown from the plow blade.  Mailboxes must be securely fastened to a sturdy post in the ground to reduce or resist the impact of thrown snow.  

 

The mailbox, post and arm should be at least (8") inches from the face of curb or edge of pavement in order to prevent direct contact by the snow.

 

If it is determined that a mailbox was struck directly by a Town snowplow, the Town will replace the existing mailbox and post with a standard mailbox and post.  Custom mailboxes and posts will not be replaced in-kind.

 

No mailbox or post will be considered for replacement if the post shows dry rot, unstable or was placed too close into the travel way.

 

The Town will replace the mailbox and/or post only when the Town snowplow is found to have made direct contact with the mailbox, not when the box is knocked over by snow or slush that is thrown by the plow.

 

Basketball hoops and sprinkler systems within the town right of way are not permitted and will not be replaced, repaired or reimbursed by the town.

 

The Director of Public Works or a designated representative is authorized to use reasonable discretion in resolving matters involving unusual circumstances.