TOWN OF AMBOY
MAILBOX POLICY
According to NYS law, mailboxes are considered obstructions and are placed in the public right-of-way as a courtesy, so the property owner is ultimately responsible for any damage from plowing. While state law does not require municipalities to repair mailboxes, many towns have policies to repair or replace them if damage is caused by a direct hit from a municipal plow during normal operations and the mailbox was properly installed. The repair or replacement is typically limited to a standard, basic mailbox and post.
What state law says:
- Mailboxes are considered "highway obstructions" under Section 319 of NYS Highway Law.
- They are allowed in the right-of-way as a convenience, but there is no legal requirement for the municipality to repair them if they are damaged during snow removal operations.
- An opinion from the NYS Attorney General states that when the need to keep the highway open conflicts with receiving mail, the latter must stand aside.
What municipalities may do:
- Many local municipalities have their own policies to repair or replace mailboxes as a courtesy.
- This often depends on the cause of damage (direct hit from a plow vs. force of snow) and the mailbox's condition.
- If a municipality agrees to replace a mailbox, it is usually a basic, standard model and does not cover decorative or expensive mailboxes.
How to protect your mailbox
- Ensure your mailbox is properly and securely attached to a strong post.
- Maintain the mailbox and post in good structural condition.
- Consider using a simple, standard mailbox for winter months to minimize the impact surface area for snow.
Thank you,
Town of Amboy Board and Highway Department.
