Reminder: automated trash and recycling collection begins next week
(2-minute read)
Graphic by the Town of Reading.
The Town of Reading is reminding residents that curbside trash and recycling collection will fully transition to automated collection starting Monday, July 6, 2026.
Collection trucks operated by Republic Services use mechanical lifting arms to empty standardized Town-issued carts. Officials describe the new system as safer, cleaner, and more efficient than the current setup.
What is not changing?
Collection days and the weekly pickup schedule will not change. Residents can continue using the same weekly pickup schedule already assigned to their address.
What is changing?
Because all collections will be performed using mechanical arms, trash and recycling must fit inside Town-issued carts, and alternative containers will no longer be accepted starting next week. Proper cart placement will become much more important under the new system.
Overflow trash bags
For occasional extra household trash, the Town will allow residents to use one (1) official overflow bag per week, placed on top of the trash cart for pickup. Overflow bags will be sold at local retailers and the DPW Office at Town Hall.
Bulk item collection changes
Bulk items will also change under the new system. Residents will need to schedule bulk pickups directly with Republic Services by calling 1-800-422-9006.
Cart placement
To help ensure a smooth transition, the Town is asking residents to place carts near the curb or edge of their property with lids fully closed, wheels facing the curb, and handles facing away from the street, on a stable, upright surface. Officials recommend leaving at least three (3) feet of clearance on all sides of carts, away from vehicles, mailboxes, and other obstacles, though they acknowledge full spacing may not always be possible.
Additional collection reminders
Residents are reminded to bag all household trash before placing it in carts, flatten cardboard boxes before placing them in recycling carts, and keep recyclables loose rather than bagged, since bagged recyclables may not be collected.
Officials cautioned that overfilled carts, items placed on top of carts, blocked access, unauthorized containers, bagged recyclables, and carts that block traffic or roadways may prevent collection once the new contract begins.
Additional cart options
Residents may request a smaller 48-gallon trash cart or an additional 96-gallon recycling cart at no charge, or lease an additional 64-gallon trash cart for $200 annually with a signed agreement.
Learn more
More information, including cart request forms and collection instructions, is available on the Town’s automated collection webpage.
Residents with questions may contact the Department of Public Works at 781-439-6930.
Officials also encourage residents to submit concerns through SeeClickFix if pickup issues occur after the transition begins.
