That's a great question, and one that gets to the heart of everyday city infrastructure. The short answer is: for a trained professional or a very handy person with the right tools, it's a straightforward but physically demanding task. For the average person, it's not particularly easy and often requires official permission.
The process itself involves several key steps. First, you must obtain approval from your local public works department. You can't just install a bin anywhere. They will specify the exact location, ensuring it doesn't block pedestrian flow or access. Once permitted, the physical work begins. You position the bin's metal base plate on the concrete sidewalk. Using a heavy-duty hammer drill and a masonry bit, you drill holes into the concrete at the marked points. This is the most labor-intensive part, as concrete is tough. Next, you insert concrete anchor bolts or sleeves into the holes. After positioning the bin's base plate over the anchors, you tighten the bolts with a wrench, securing it firmly to the ground. Finally, you attach the main bin body to the anchored base.
The main challenges aren't just technical. The difficulty lies in the heavy-duty tools required (a powerful hammer drill is a must), the physical strength needed to drill into concrete, and the crucial need for precise placement. Getting it wrong could create a tripping hazard or damage underground utilities. For these reasons, this task is almost always handled by city public works crews or licensed contractors. They have the experience, equipment, and authority to do it correctly and safely. So, while the concept is simple, the execution requires specific skills and approvals, making it a professional job rather than a simple DIY project.