That's an excellent and important question about urban accessibility. Yes, public trash cans in the United States are subject to specific ADA requirements when they are considered "fixed elements" in public rights-of-way, parks, and facilities. The key considerations focus on ensuring they are usable by individuals with mobility disabilities, particularly those using wheelchairs.
The primary requirements involve the trash can's height and the clear floor space in front of it. The operable parts—typically the opening for depositing waste—must be within a "forward reach" range. This means the opening should be no higher than 48 inches from the ground and no lower than 15 inches. Furthermore, there must be at least 30 inches by 48 inches of clear ground space in front of the receptacle, allowing a wheelchair to approach closely. The path to the trash can must also be accessible, with no obstructions or steep slopes.
For bins with swinging doors or lids, the force required to open them should not exceed 5 pounds of pressure. This ensures that people with limited hand strength or dexterity can use them independently. While not every single litter bin on a street corner may be individually compliant, municipalities and entities are required to ensure that accessible options are available as part of their overall program accessibility. Installing compliant bins at key locations like building entrances, park seating areas, and along accessible routes is a standard best practice for inclusive urban design.