Selecting the appropriate trash can size for a small public plaza requires careful consideration of several factors. First, assess the expected user capacity - typically, a small plaza might accommodate 20-50 people at peak times. For this scale, 30-50 gallon containers often work well. Consider the plaza's primary activities; spaces with food vendors need larger capacity than those serving as simple thoroughfares.
The frequency of waste collection significantly impacts your size decision. If daily collection isn't feasible, you'll need larger bins or multiple units. A good rule is to provide one trash receptacle for every 30-50 feet of seating area and near all major entry points.
Material durability matters too - stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic withstands urban environments best. Look for designs with secure lids to prevent scattering by wind or animals. Remember that multiple medium-sized bins often serve better than one oversized container, as they encourage proper use from all plaza areas.
Monitor your initial choice for two weeks. If bins overflow regularly, increase capacity. If they're rarely more than half-full, you might reduce size or quantity. The right balance keeps your plaza clean while optimizing maintenance resources.