Residents of Downingtown Borough will see an increase in their annual refuse fee starting in 2026, according to a recent update from the borough. The fee will rise from $240 to $360 per year. This change is due to higher costs charged by the contracted waste hauler.
The borough clarified that sewer fees are billed in arrears, reflecting actual usage from August through November, while refuse fees are billed in advance. The refuse charge on the current invoice covers January 2026 and represents the first of four quarterly payments for the upcoming year at the new rate. Invoices may show a date from the previous month because they are often generated ahead of time by the billing service. Payments are due on the first day of the following month.
The borough explained that it used its refuse fund balance to prevent a fee increase in 2025, but this fund is now depleted and needs to be rebuilt to maintain stable service. All money collected through refuse fees goes directly toward paying for waste collection services; there is no surplus or revenue generated for other uses.
“We hope this clarification is helpful. If you have additional questions, please contact the Borough office for assistance.”
“We appreciate residents’ understanding as we take the necessary steps to maintain reliable, cost-effective waste collection for the community.”
To compare past and future costs, residents can view the 2021-2024 bid sheet alongside the 2025-2028 bid sheet.
