Mailbox Guidelines

If my mailbox is damaged by a snow plow, will Tompkins County replace it?

The County Highway practice is not to replace or repair mailboxes damaged by the impact of snow when plowing, or as a result of snow removal during periods of limited visibility.

However, the County will consider repair/replacement if the mailbox assembly is damaged during cleanup after the storm, or if driver error clearly caused damage to the mailbox assembly.

Mailboxes properly installed and maintained are generally not in conflict with snow & ice removal.

To minimize the risk of damage:

  • The mailbox, including support arm, should have a minimum clearance of 42" above the roadside shoulder.
  • The front of the mailbox should not extend beyond the edge of the shoulder.
  • The mailbox post should be a minimum of 18" from the edge of the shoulder.
  • The mailbox assembly should be clearly visible.

A mailbox assembly shall not be constructed or installed in a manner that interferes with routine snow removal, or in a manner which clearly presents an unacceptable risk to snow removal operations or the traveling public. If you are planning a new mailbox installation on a County Road, call 607-274-0300 for guidance on location and type of construction.

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