PEOPLE who put their bin bags out for collection too early face being fined as York council workers adopt a "zero tolerance" stance on cleaning the streets.

Council bosses today warned that any black bin bags which were left on the street more than the day before collection could earn the owners a fine.

Street Environment Officers have been told to adopt a tough stance on residents who "ignore their duties towards our environment".

Those who ignore the ruling can expect a fine of up to £50 when City of York Council brings in its "fixed penalty fine" schemes on April 19.

In January, the Evening Press reported how people who drop litter will be fined, and even prosecuted if they continue to offend.

Now those who put their bins out too early, fly-tip, fly-post and refuse to clean up after their dogs can expect to feel the council's wrath.

The move, which is being implemented as part of York Pride, will particularly affect people who live in areas of the city which are not served by wheelie bins.

Andrew Waller, deputy council leader, said that the issue of bin bags on the street days before they were due to be collected was "a serious problem".

"Residents have written to me about this problem. Only putting them out the night before collection is acceptable. We will send out letters where this is a serious problem, and fines will come into force."

Derek Smallwood, Labour's environment spokesman, said he was in favour of the idea in principle but hoped there would be some flexibility to account of the differing circumstances of residents.

Have you received a warning from the council about your bin bags? Contact Steve Carroll on 01904 653051 ext 304.

Updated: 10:56 Friday, April 02, 2004