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Stevens County adopts formal snow-and-ice removal policy, clarifies mailbox and driveway rules
Summary
The Stevens County Board approved a formal snow-and-ice removal policy that sets route expectations, mailbox damage rules and restrictions on placing snow across roadways; the policy is intended to provide consistent guidance to staff and the public.
The Stevens County Board adopted a written snow-and-ice removal policy to guide winter operations, route prioritization, and responses to mailbox and driveway complaints.
Staff said the policy consolidates existing practices and clarifies responsibilities for both county crews and property owners. The policy states that if county equipment directly contacts a mailbox with the wing, the county will replace it; damage caused by flying snow that leaves the equipment does not obligate county replacement. "If, if we touch that mailbox with our wing and we get it, we can replace it. If it's damaged from flying snow that comes off our equipment, that's the responsibility of the land owner," a presenter said.
The policy also clarifies that it is illegal for residents to push or place snow onto or across the roadway and that, in severe storms, the engineer or maintenance supervisor may authorize limited use of county equipment to access private residences so essential personnel can report to work.
Why it matters: the policy provides a uniform public message and operational standards for 12 county snow routes that can take 10–14 hours to complete. It also aims to reduce confusion during winter storms and to set expectations about mailbox and driveway damage.
Board action: Commissioners voted to approve the snow-and-ice policy by voice vote. Staff said they will publish the policy and provide guidance to the public during the winter season.
Ending: County staff will follow the new policy in upcoming winter events and will provide supervisors with the protocol for extraordinary access to private residences when necessary.
