The rules
for winter
mail
delivery
U.S. Postal Service officials ask for the public’s cooperation in keeping mailboxes, steps, and sidewalks clear of snow and ice, so letter carriers are able to provide the safest, most efficient delivery service possible.
Some tips:
Clear enough snow from curbside boxes to allow mail trucks to approach the box, deliver the mail without leaning out too much, and to drive away from the box without danger of the need for backing. Generally, this requires 15 feet cleared on the coming and going sides of the mailbox.
Walkways should be cleared of snow and ice and allow enough traction to avoid slips, trips or falls.
Steps should also be kept clear of ice and snow and in good repair so as not to cause injury to the letter carriers or others who visit the customer’s home.
Overhangs should be clear and free of snow and ice to avoid injury.
Residents who receive delivery to roadside mailboxes also must keep the approach to, and exit from, the mailbox clear of snow or any other obstacles, like trash cans and other vehicles.  The carrier needs to get in, and then out, without leaving the vehicle or backing up.

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