That's an excellent and very practical question. Yes, absolutely, modern urban trash bins can and often are locked or anchored to the ground to prevent theft and vandalism. This is a common practice in city management to protect public assets.
The most effective method is through ground anchoring systems. Manufacturers design bins with integrated anchor points or flanges at their base. During installation, contractors use heavy-duty bolts or expanding anchors to secure these points directly into a concrete foundation or pavement. This makes the bin virtually impossible to remove without specialized tools.
Another popular solution is the use of locking security bands or cables. A strong steel cable is looped through a reinforced part of the bin's body and then locked around a fixed street fixture, like a lamp post or a dedicated ground stake. While slightly more visible, this method is highly effective and allows for some flexibility in placement.
The primary goal is deterrence. A securely anchored bin discourages casual theft for scrap metal or mischievous tipping over. It ensures the bin remains in its intended location, providing reliable service and reducing replacement costs for the city. When specifying bins, many municipalities now include "anchorable" or "lock-down capable" as a standard requirement.
So, to directly answer your question: not only can they be locked down, but for durable and cost-effective public waste management, they really should be.