In the winter, Connecticut residents must spend time clearing snow from the area around their mailboxes in order to have their mail delivered. But what if their mailbox is blocked by a car?
In Connecticut, there's no federal or state law prohibiting you from parking in front of a mailbox. However, it is illegal to park in front of someone’s driveway, and there are other restrictions.
Here’s what to know about Connecticut transportation laws, and what to do if your mailbox is blocked.
What does Connecticut law say about parking in front of someone’s mailbox?
In Connecticut, parking in front of someone’s mailbox is generally legal if on a public street, though it may be a nuisance. However, there are restrictions.
According to the Connecticut General Laws, areas you cannot park include:
As to obstruct a driveway
Within 10 feet of a fire hydrant
Within 25 feet of an intersection or crosswalk
On the curved section of a highway where a clear view of the vehicle may not be had
In any place where parking is prohibited or longer than indicated as lawful by any sign erected
More: Is it illegal to park in front of someone’s house? Here’s what Connecticut law says
The law also allows cities and towns to create their own rules prohibiting, limiting or restricting the parking of vehicles and to maintain signs designating the time or terms of the regulations. Some local ordinances may prohibit parking in other areas, such as in front of mailboxes, too, so you should check your town's rules.
Does my mail still get delivered if the mailbox is blocked?
The United States Postal Service says that customers are required to ensure that proper access is provided to mail boxes in order for mail to be delivered.
They define "proper access" as including the removal of snow. If accumulated snow prevents the mail carrier from reaching your box, you can set up alternatives like a temporary mail box, arranging with a neighbor to receive your neighbor, or pick up your mail at your local post office.
However, USPS also says that mailbox blockage by a vehicle may also prevent the delivery of mail.
"According to our policy, the city or rural carrier should get out of the vehicle to make delivery if the mailbox is temporarily blocked by a vehicle," USPS says. "However, if the carrier continually experiences a problem in serving curb line or rural boxes where the customer is able to control on street parking, the postmaster may withdraw delivery service."
If a car is continuously blocking your mailbox, you may be able to discuss alternative delivery methods with your postmaster.
A stranger is parked in front of my mailbox. Can I get them towed?
In most cases, no, as parking in front of a mailbox is not prohibited by state or federal laws.
Connecticut recently passed a new law changing the state’s century-old towing law.
The new law doesn’t allow tow companies to tow vehicles immediately just because of an expired parking permit or registration, or tow vehicles without notice unless they’re blocking traffic, fire hydrants or parked in an accessible spot, according to CT Mirror. It also gives a 72-hour grace period before a car can be towed for an expired parking sticker.
This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Is it legal to park in front of someone’s mailbox? CT law says this
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