That's an excellent and very practical question. The short answer is yes, it is absolutely possible to bolt down a public waste bin on brick pavers without damaging them, if you use the correct method and materials. The key is to avoid cracking the pavers or compromising their interlocking structure.
The most reliable technique is to use a core drill with a diamond-tipped bit to create clean holes through the pavers themselves. This method minimizes the risk of shattering compared to a standard hammer drill. Once you have a clean hole, you insert a high-quality sleeve anchor or a through-bolt. For a through-bolt, you would drill completely through the paver and into a stable sub-base, using a large washer on the underside for distribution. It's crucial to avoid overtightening the bolt, as this can crack the paver from pressure.
An important consideration is the sub-base beneath the pavers. If it's a properly compacted sand or gravel base, anchoring into it can provide good stability. However, for maximum security against determined vandalism, the bin's anchor points should ideally align with the gaps between pavers, allowing you to set the bolt into a concrete footing poured below the paving level. This is often the best practice in high-traffic public areas.
Always check with local authorities or property managers for regulations and to locate any underground utilities before drilling. With careful planning and the right hardware, you can achieve a secure, permanent installation that keeps the bin in place while preserving the integrity and appearance of your brick pavement.