Thinking of dumping your trash in the park? Think twice. The city is cracking down on illegal dumpers by slapping them with hefty fines.

Fines for the first offense of illegal dumping have jumped to $5,000 and will double for the second offense within a 12-month period. Previously the fine was $1,000.

Additionally, the Parks Department is working with local elected officials to fund 24/7 surveillance at least 10 parks in the Bronx that have become hotspots for illegal dumpers.

"This is not easy, picking up a bathtub and a refrigerator, washer-dryer units, couches, sofas, like, wow, it's a whole living room that people are dumping in neighborhoods," said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.

Tires, construction equipment and even a mattress were found littering Richman Echo Park in Tremont on Monday.

It's one of the parks where there will now be surveillance to identify who is leaving trash in places people go to enjoy. The Parks Department says there has been an increase in illegal dumping, specifically in the Bronx.

"I think it's easier, it's cheaper, if you're doing construction, you have to pay a contractor to remove the debris, it just can seem like it's an open area that doesn't have consequences," said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue.

Donoghue says she hopes the combination of the fines plus the cameras will help make a difference in the amount of dumping littering the community.

The city has special waste drop off sites for bigger items like TVs, computers, car tires and batteries. Residents can also get free curbside removal for larger items. The public is also encouraged to report illegal dumping to 311.

For more information on bulk item removal, click here. Bulk Item Disposal · NYC311