That's an excellent and very practical question! Yes, urban trash cans can and absolutely should be anchored to the sidewalk in most public settings. The primary reasons are safety and security. An unanchored bin can be tipped over, creating litter and hazards, or even blown or pushed into traffic. Anchoring also prevents theft of the receptacle itself.
Now, regarding the installation complexity: it's generally straightforward but requires proper tools and planning. The process isn't overly complicated for a trained maintenance crew or contractor. Typically, it involves drilling holes into the concrete sidewalk at the bin's base plate locations, inserting heavy-duty anchor sleeves (like concrete anchors or wedge anchors), and then bolting the bin's base securely. The key is using the correct, robust hardware designed for public use and ensuring the sidewalk slab is thick enough to support the anchor.
The main considerations are logistical. You need to coordinate any sidewalk closures or work areas, have the right permits if required by your municipality, and use equipment like a concrete drill. For a typical city crew, installing a single unit might take 30-60 minutes. So, while the actual task is not highly complex, it does require a deliberate, professional approach to ensure a safe, durable, and compliant installation that will serve the public well for years.