That's an excellent and very practical question! Many cities with narrow sidewalks face this exact challenge. The good news is, yes, there are definitely public waste bins specifically designed for tight spaces.
Traditional bulky bins can obstruct pedestrian flow, become safety hazards, and simply don't fit. In response, urban designers and manufacturers have created innovative solutions. You'll often find slim-profile bins that are tall rather than wide, utilizing vertical space instead of valuable sidewalk width. Another common design is the "litter basket" style—a simple, open-top metal ring with a bag liner—which takes up minimal footprint.
Some cities install bins that mount directly onto walls, light poles, or other street furniture, eliminating a standalone footprint altogether. Modern materials also allow for durable yet thinner construction. The key is finding a balance between capacity, accessibility for users, ease of emptying for crews, and vandal resistance—all within a narrow form factor.
So, while the classic round bin might not work, tailored solutions like columnar bins, attached receptacles, and minimalist designs are making clean streets possible even on the narrowest of walkways. It's all about smart, context-sensitive urban design.