While free newspaper stands may be convenient for some, one Brooklyn councilman says the boxes are a quality of life issue.

Councilman David Yassky is cracking down on the boxes, specifically the ones set up near fire hydrants. City officials say the newspaper boxes should be at least 15 feet from hydrants and subway stations. They should also be 5 feet from intersections or curbs.

"A lot of times they're right in the crosswalk, so people have to go around them to cross the street and that's dangerous," says Yassky.

Yassky is urging anyone who notices a box near a hydrant, subway or intersection to file a complaint on his Web site. According to Yassky, once the complaint is filed, a notice can be sent to the Department of Transportation for the box to be removed.

Council Member Yassky - Newsbox Alert!