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Reader Question: What is the correct way to begin or end an email to an unnamed mairie official? Have the rules changed since the era when everything was done by post? 

Traditionally, letters to a person you do not know start with Madame, Monsieur. 

You have likely seen this in one sent to you, usually in official communications from authorities such as tax officials.

In terms of how the letter should end, the formal way is: Je vous prie d'agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l'expression de mes salutations distinguées (however of this there are several variants).

These may sound overly formal – and some may say old-fashioned – but it is a safe option with people you do not know. 

Once the connection has been established, you can use shorter formulas. 

If you are hoping the person will respond to your letter with their own, you can add Dans l'attente de vous lire to indicate or point towards this.

For an email, the same start is usually best, but it is now accepted to use a shortened ending. 

This is usually Bien cordialement or Bien à vous. 

Adding bien makes these still formal but not overly so, and helps declutter the communication. 

Note that when writing letters such expressions are common, once you know the person. 

For example, when sending a letter to your bank you may use Je vous prie d'agréer… but to your personal advisor use Bien cordialement.