That's a great and practical question! It really depends on the specific bin and its location. In many urban areas, especially on sidewalks and in commercial districts, you'll find heavy-duty public waste bins that are often permanently fixed to the ground with bolts or concrete. This is primarily to prevent theft, vandalism, or them being tipped over. They are designed for the municipal cleaning crews to empty them in place using specialized vehicles.
However, many other bins are indeed movable. You'll commonly see wheeled bins in pedestrian zones, parks, or during events. These are meant to be easily relocated for thorough cleaning of the pavement underneath or to accommodate changing public needs. For routine street sweeping, if a lightweight bin is in the path of the cleaning vehicle, workers will typically move it aside temporarily and then return it.
So, the answer isn't one-size-fits-all. Permanent fixtures offer security and stability, while movable units provide flexibility for maintenance and changing urban layouts. The choice depends on the city's management strategy for that particular spot.