It's Time to Winterize Your Mailbox!

The Engineering Department and the Department of Public Works remind property owners that mailboxes are installed within the public right-of-way. This public right-of-way (ROW), which is typically 10-15 feet behind the curb line, is reserved for public use such as utility lines, sidewalks, etc. Mailboxes need to be installed per the post office requirements, so the Township does not issue permits for them, but they must be installed in a safe manner.

Please contact the Engineering Department if you have further questions regarding the type of structure that is acceptable.  In addition, now is the time to check your mailbox in advance of winter operations.  In most cases, the snow plow does not actually hit the mailbox, but the force of snow thrown from the roadway is enough to knock down a loose or weakened mailbox. Damage to posts and receptacles can often be prevented by proper routine maintenance. If you shake your mailbox and it feels loose, it probably needs maintenance.

Take time in the fall to make any repairs needed or replace them so your mailbox will be strong enough to survive the winter. Proper maintenance may help to prevent damage that results in delayed mail delivery. Please review the Winter Operations link in the Public Works page for more information.