After the blizzard cleanup, residents can file damage reports through their local, county, or state public works offices.
OCEAN COUNTY, NJ – Now that snow removal operations have ended across Ocean County, many residents are discovering broken mailboxes, torn lawns, and other property damage caused by snowplows during the storm cleanup. Reporting that damage depends on who maintains the road where it occurred — township, county, or state.
Key Points
- Residents should determine whether their road is township, county, or state-maintained before filing a report
- Each agency has its own reporting process through public works offices or online forms
- Photos and documentation are essential for claims or repair requests
Determining who maintains your road
Before filing a report, homeowners need to identify whether the damaged road is managed locally, by the county, or by the state.
- Township roads: Contact your local Department of Public Works (DPW).
- County roads: Report damage to the Ocean County Department of Road Operations. County roads are highlighted by blue signs with yellow text.
- State highways (e.g., Route 9, Route 35): File a report through the New Jersey Department of Transportation online problem form.
In Jackson Township, residents can report snowplow-related damage, including broken mailboxes, directly to the DPW by calling 732-928-1311. Other Ocean County towns maintain similar reporting systems, and many now offer online submission forms or mobile apps for service requests.
What to include when filing a report
Homeowners are encouraged to take clear photos of the damage, showing its proximity to the roadway, the condition of the mailbox or lawn, and any visible plow marks. That documentation helps officials verify claims and determine repair eligibility.
For significant damage, residents may need to file a formal claim with the municipality or county’s risk management department.
If damage creates an immediate hazard — such as debris, a leaning post obstructing traffic, or a broken sign — residents should contact their local police non-emergency line for assistance.