UTICA - Have you done yard work recently?

Many Uticans have been busy clearing leaves and trimming trees, but city officials say some are illegally dumping the waste in the street.

DPW crews spent the early afternoon clearing brush from Neilson Street after four residents on the street ignored written warnings.

Solid Waste Authority and DPW work together regulating the collection of green waste and write tickets to those ignoring the law.

"You are not allowed to put green waste on the street," said Rich Conte, Utica DPW Commissioner. "It must be either containerized. If its branches, it must be tied in bundles to pick up. Or residents can bring it directly to the Solid Waste Facility where they are not charged for it."

Once crews are called to your house to clean up the green waste, their work will cost you.

The homeowner here faces about $100 for a small pile.