That's a really smart and practical question to ask! It shows you care about your community's appearance and resources. Many modern cities are indeed proactively using graffiti-resistant paints or coatings on public fixtures like trash bins, benches, and utility boxes.
This special paint creates a protective barrier. It doesn't necessarily stop someone from making a mark, but it makes removal incredibly easier. Graffiti on a treated surface can often be wiped off with a specific solvent or even power-washed away without damaging the underlying paint or metal. This saves the city significant time and money in maintenance, keeping public spaces clean and discouraging repeat vandalism because the "canvas" is no longer permanent.
However, not all bins have this feature, as it depends on the municipality's budget and policies. You can usually spot a treated bin—the surface might have a slightly smoother, often glossy finish. If you're curious about your local area, contacting your city's public works department is the best way to get a definite answer. Your concern is valid, and many urban planners share it, which is why these resistant coatings are becoming a standard tool in maintaining our shared spaces.