Maine Neighbor Disputes: What to Do If Your Neighbor Interferes with Your Mail Delivery

Understanding Mail Interference Laws in Maine

📜 Federal Protection: Interfering with mail delivery is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1708, which prohibits the theft or obstruction of mail.
🏛️ State Regulations: While Maine follows federal regulations, state laws on trespassing or harassment may also apply if a neighbor is intentionally disrupting mail delivery.

If you suspect interference, document incidents and report them to the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and local authorities.

Common Types of Mail Interference

🔍 Deliberate Theft or Tampering – A neighbor opening, stealing, or destroying mail is illegal under federal law.
🚧 Obstructing Mailbox Access – If a neighbor’s vehicle, fence, or structure prevents postal workers from delivering mail, it could lead to non-delivery.
🗣️ Threats or Harassment of Postal Workers – If a neighbor threatens or verbally harasses a postal worker, deliveries to your residence may stop.
📭 Taking Packages Without Consent – If a package is left at your door and a neighbor removes it without permission, it could be considered theft.

Steps to Take If Your Neighbor Interferes with Mail

📸 Document the Issue:
- Keep records of missing mail, delayed deliveries, and interactions with your neighbor.
- Take photos or videos if possible, especially if they are physically obstructing delivery.
- Track any complaints with your local post office.

📞 Report to the Postal Service:
- Contact your local post office and speak with a postal supervisor about the situation.
- File a complaint with the USPIS at [USPIS.gov](https://www.uspis.gov) or call 1-877-876-2455.

👮 Involve Local Authorities:
- If there is ongoing interference or theft, report it to your local police department.
- File for a harassment complaint if the interference is persistent and intentional.

💼 Consider Legal Action:
- Consult an attorney to explore civil remedies if financial losses occur due to mail tampering.
- Send a formal cease-and-desist letter warning the neighbor of potential legal consequences.

What to Do If Your Mail Is Stolen

📢 Notify the Postal Inspection Service:
Immediately report stolen mail at [USPIS.gov](https://www.uspis.gov) or visit your nearest post office.

💳 Contact Financial Institutions:
If stolen mail contained checks, credit cards, or personal information, notify banks and credit agencies to prevent fraud.

📄 File an Identity Theft Report:
If sensitive documents are compromised, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at [IdentityTheft.gov](https://www.identitytheft.gov).

👮 Report Theft to Law Enforcement:
A police report can be valuable for recovering lost items and proving criminal intent in court.

Protecting Your Mail from Neighbor Interference

🏡 Upgrade Mailbox Security:
- Install a locked mailbox to prevent unauthorized access.
- Consider using a P.O. Box for important deliveries.

📦 Use Secure Package Delivery Options:
- Request signature confirmation for deliveries.
- Schedule packages for pickup at designated locations instead of home delivery.

🔄 Adjust Your Delivery Methods:
- Coordinate with trusted neighbors or install a parcel drop box near your home.
- Sign up for text or email alerts from USPS regarding mail delivery updates.

Legal Remedies and Compensation for Mail Interference

💰 Potential Compensation:
If your neighbor’s actions result in damages, you may be entitled to compensation through:
✔️ Insurance Claims – Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover stolen mail losses.
✔️ Small Claims Court – If interference causes financial harm (e.g., undelivered checks), you may sue for damages in Maine's small claims court (limit: $6,000).
✔️ Restitution from Criminal Proceedings – If your neighbor is convicted of mail theft, courts may order them to compensate for damages.

⚖️ Civil vs. Criminal Actions:
- A civil claim seeks financial restitution from the neighbor for damages caused by their interference.
- A criminal complaint (filed via law enforcement or USPIS) can lead to prosecution under federal and state laws.

Handling Disputes Without Escalation

💬 Open Communication:
If possible, try discussing the problem politely before taking legal action. Misunderstandings or accidental interference can often be resolved amicably.

📝 Mediation Services:
Local dispute resolution programs offer mediation to address issues without going to court. Check with your local municipal office for available services in Maine.

⚠️ No Contact Order (if necessary):
If threats or harassment escalate, a restraining order may be needed to prevent further conflicts.