That's a great question! When it comes to downtown street corners, the most popular and practical size for a public trash receptacle is typically a 30 to 55-gallon (approximately 114 to 208-liter) capacity bin. You'll often see these as sturdy, cylindrical or rectangular units made of coated steel or durable plastic.
The 35-gallon size is a real workhorse. It's large enough to handle the high foot traffic of a busy corner—collecting lunch wrappers, coffee cups, and incidental litter throughout the day—without becoming so oversized that it's an eyesore or too heavy for sanitation crews to empty efficiently. These bins usually stand about 36 to 42 inches tall, which makes them easily visible without obstructing sight lines.
The choice isn't arbitrary. This size balances several needs: sufficient capacity to prevent overflow between collections, a manageable weight for workers, and a footprint that fits neatly on a sidewalk without impeding pedestrian flow. Many cities now use paired units of this size—one for trash and one for recycling—creating a compact yet effective waste station.
Ultimately, while the 35-55 gallon range is the standard, the "perfect" size also depends on specific corner traffic, collection frequency, and local ordinances. The goal is always a clean, walkable streetscape.