City of Reading announces 2026 curbside leaf collection schedule

The City of Reading has announced its 2026 curbside loose-leaf collection program, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 12. Public Works crews will navigate various neighborhoods, including the 18th Ward, South of Penn, Northeast Reading, Hampden Heights, Hessian Camp, East Reading, Northwest Reading, and the Northmont, Riverdale, and Glenside areas.

Residents are advised not to place loose leaves at the curb before the program starts. To prevent damage to collection equipment, leaf piles must be kept free of branches, brush, grass clippings, and other debris. Because the loose-leaf collection does not follow a fixed daily schedule and may be affected by weather or personnel availability, crews will make periodic return trips rather than immediate backtracking if a block is missed.

In addition to loose-leaf pickup, the city will collect bagged leaves on regular yard waste days. The schedule for bagged leaves is as follows:

• Mondays: Northeast areas • Tuesdays: Center City, East Reading, 18th Ward, and South of Penn areas • Wednesdays: Northwest, Northmont, Riverdale, and Glenside areas

All bagged leaves must be contained in biodegradable paper bags; plastic bags are prohibited. The collection season is expected to conclude on Friday, December 4, though this date may be extended if necessary.