Reading, PA is home to a wide range of essential city services designed to keep the community running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. While Reading Magazine is not affiliated with the City of Reading government, we’ve compiled this guide to help residents and visitors understand the services available to them and how to access them. For official details, forms, and updates, please visit the City’s official website at readingpa.gov.
Public Safety Services
Reading’s public safety is overseen by dedicated departments that handle police, fire, and emergency preparedness. The Reading Police Department manages law enforcement and public safety within city limits. Residents can contact them for non-emergency issues such as filing a police report, neighborhood concerns, or community safety programs. In case of emergencies, always dial 911.
The Reading Fire Department provides fire suppression, rescue services, and fire safety education. Fire stations are strategically located throughout the city, and the department offers resources for home safety, including smoke alarm installation programs and fire prevention tips.
Additionally, the city’s Fire Marshal’s Office coordinates disaster preparedness, fire investigations, fire code enforcement, inspections, and plan review, plus fire Prevention and education.
Public Works & Utilities
The City of Reading’s Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining city infrastructure, including roads, street lighting, public buildings, and more. If you encounter a pothole, damaged streetlight, or require snow removal updates, Public Works is the department to contact.
Trash and recycling services are managed through city contracts, with weekly curbside collection available in most neighborhoods. Recycling guidelines and schedules can be found on the city’s official site. For water and sewer services, residents should reach out to the Reading Area Water Authority, which manages billing, service interruptions, and maintenance.
Permits and Licensing
If you’re planning home renovations, starting a new business, or organizing a public event, you’ll likely need permits from the city. The Building and Trades Division oversees building permits for residential and commercial projects. Zoning approvals may be necessary for certain developments or changes to property use.
Business owners must obtain appropriate licenses from the city, and vendors planning to operate at festivals or public markets are required to register. Additionally, event organizers need permits for street closures, parades, or gatherings held in public spaces.
Parks and Recreation
Reading offers a network of public parks, green spaces, and recreation centers open year-round. The Reading Recreation Commission offers programs for all ages—from youth sports leagues to adult fitness classes.
Popular parks like City Park, Schlegel Park, Pendora Park and Baer Park provide spaces for walking, picnicking, and community events.
Housing, Code Enforcement, and Zoning
For property owners, landlords, and renters, understanding the city’s housing and zoning services is essential. The Zoning Department provides information on land use regulations and property development guidelines. Whether you’re looking to build, renovate, or inquire about property lines, zoning is your go-to resource.
Code Enforcement ensures that properties are maintained according to city ordinances, focusing on issues such as overgrown lawns, abandoned vehicles, and unsafe structures. The city also conducts rental inspections to ensure housing standards are met.
Transportation and Parking
Navigating Reading is made easier with services aimed at transportation and parking. BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority) operates the city’s bus network, with routes connecting key neighborhoods and regional hubs.
Reading Parking Authority manages public parking garages, metered spaces, and residential parking permits. Visitors and residents can find detailed information on where to park downtown, how to pay for parking, and how to apply for parking exemptions.
Voting and Civic Engagement
Residents of Reading are encouraged to participate in local government through voting, public meetings, and community boards. Voter registration is managed by Berks County, with polling places located throughout the city.
City Council meetings are open to the public, providing a platform for citizens to voice concerns or support local initiatives. Meeting schedules and agendas are published regularly on the city’s website.
Citizens Service Center
The Citizens Service Center is located on the first floor of City Hall and comprises two locations, Rooms 1-27 and 1-33. The CSC exists to serve citizens by educating and addressing municipal questions and needs.
Reading 311 Mobile App
The Reading 311 Mobile App is designed to empower residents with a convenient platform to request various city services, such as reporting missed trash pick-up, yard waste concerns, potholes, and much more. With just a few taps, residents can submit service requests directly from their devices, eliminating the need for traditional paperwork and lengthy visits to City Hall. The app is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store
For comprehensive and official information, forms, and updates, please refer directly to readingpa.gov.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided by Reading Magazine as an informational resource for the community and is not affiliated with the City of Reading government. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, we recommend visiting the city’s official website or contacting departments directly for the most up-to-date details.
