Respect, recreation, and responsibility in the Reading Town Forest

Jul 19

New signage is going up at all entrances to the Reading Town Forest to help clarify the updated rules and regulations, recently approved by the Town Forest Committee on February 10, 2025. These updates were thoughtfully developed to ensure the maximum protection of the forest’s natural environment and to promote the safe and respectful enjoyment of the space by all users.

The Reading Town Forest is a treasured public resource, open to everyone from dawn until dusk. Visitors are encouraged to explore its scenic trails, learn about local ecology, and enjoy recreational time with family and pets - all while following responsible use guidelines.

Forest access and general use

Visitors must stay on officially marked trails and access roads, as displayed on the official Town forest map, available on the Town of Reading website and at kiosk stations within the forest. Creating new trails or using unofficial ones is prohibited.

Construction, alteration, or planting in the forest is not allowed without prior approval from the Town Forest Committee. Additionally, no damage may be done to any forest infrastructure, including signs, kiosks, maps, or other structures.

Leave No Trace: all users must carry out what they carry in. Dumping of yard waste, debris, or other materials is strictly prohibited.

Prohibited activities

For the safety of visitors and the protection of natural habitats, the following activities are not allowed:

Motorized vehicles, including e-bikes, without a permit
Hunting and use of tree stands
Weapons, including firearms, BB guns, airsoft, and paintball guns
Alcoholic beverages and glass containers
Unapproved trail creation, plant removal, or herbicide use

Note: Invasive plant removal (e.g., Glossy Buckthorn or Black Swallow Wort) by hand-pulling is encouraged, but the use of tools or chemicals requires approval.

Dog walking regulations

The Town Forest welcomes dogs, but owners must follow these key rules to ensure a safe and positive experience for all:

A maximum of two off-leash dogs per handler is permitted
Dogs must be under effective voice control at all times (within sight, responsive to voice commands, and non-aggressive)
Leashes are required when entering or exiting the forest
Handlers must carry a leash for each dog at all times
Dog waste must be collected and disposed of properly in trash receptacles

Aggressive behavior such as jumping on, barking at, or approaching others without consent may result in the dog needing to be leashed or removed from the forest.

Permits are required

To protect the forest and ensure safe public use, permits are required for the following activities. Apply online via the Town of Reading website:

Group events (20+ participants)
Camping (designated locations only: Scrub Hill, Old Council Ring, New Council Ring)
Enter before dawn or after dusk
Fires and cookouts, pending Fire Department approval
Vehicle access, limited to approved roads at low speeds (max 5 mph, 3 vehicles per event unless otherwise approved.

Firewood must originate within 20 miles of the Town Forest or be kiln-dried, per best practices to prevent the spread of invasive pests.

Enforcement and reporting

Violations of these rules can result in fines up to $300, per Reading General Bylaw 1.8. Dog bites should be reported to the Reading Police Department at 781-944-1212, and all other forest-related concerns can be directed to Animal Control at 781-439-6950 or emailed to AnimalControl@ci.Reading.MA.US.

Enjoy the forest - respect nature and each other

The new signage and clarified regulations are a reminder that the Reading Town Forest Committee page on the Town website, or scan the QR codes found at forest entrances.