That's an excellent and important question about creating more inclusive public spaces. Yes, there absolutely are wheelchair-accessible urban trash cans designed with a lower opening height, and they are becoming more common as cities prioritize universal design.
The key feature you're looking for is often specified in accessibility guidelines, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. While the ADA doesn't give an exact number for trash receptacles, it emphasizes that operable parts (like the opening to dispose of waste) must be within accessible reach ranges. This generally means a forward or side reach no higher than 48 inches, and for a comfortable, lower reach, many manufacturers design bins with the primary opening between 30 to 36 inches from the ground.
These accessible bins often come with other thoughtful features: a wide, lever-action pedal for easy opening without hand contact, a large, clearly marked opening, and a stable base to prevent tipping if someone leans on it. They are typically placed on accessible routes, clear of obstacles, so a wheelchair user can approach and use them directly.
Finding them, however, can be inconsistent. You'll most reliably see them in newer or recently renovated public areas like transit stations, city parks, government buildings, and university campuses. Their presence is a strong sign of a community's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone can participate in keeping shared spaces clean. If you're advocating for them in your area, focusing on the principles of universal design—which benefits parents with strollers, children, and older adults too—can be a powerful argument.