The city of Lake Charles is reminding lawn care companies and residents of the proper ways to dispose of grass clippings and other yard waste.

Blowing or sweeping yard waste, including leaves, grass clippings, yard and garden debris and brush, resulting from landscaping maintenance and land-clearing operations, into city streets and/or storm drains is considered littering and is a violation of the city of Lake Charles’ Code of Ordinances (Sec. 13-15.1).

“This may seem like an innocent thing to do, but intentionally disposing of these items in this manner is harmful and illegal,” said City Administrator John Cardone. “Over time, as this waste builds up in our underground drainage infrastructure, drainage becomes slower and in some cases, even blocked by accumulated debris.”

For residents, the proper way to dispose of these items is to bag them and place them out on the resident’s normal garbage and trash collection day. Larger branches should be placed curbside, in a manner that does not obstruct items such as water meters, ditches or storm drains. Grass clippings can also be blown back into the yard.

For commercial properties, the contracted lawn care company is responsible for the disposal of the waste, including any branches or other items too large for bagging. Grass clippings, if not bagged, can also be blown back onto the property.