Yes—generally speaking, urban trash cans can be bolted to concrete sidewalks, and many cities do it to keep bins from being moved, stolen, or tipped over. But it isn’t just a matter of drilling four holes. The sidewalk has to be sound, the can has to be suitable for fixed installation, and the hardware has to match the concrete and local conditions.
Most installations use wedge anchors, sleeve anchors, or adhesive anchors. For older or cracked concrete, adhesive anchors or a poured-in-place base may be better because they spread the load and reduce the chance of spalling. On newer sidewalks, a sleeve or wedge anchor can work well if you avoid expansion joints, utility lines, and the thin edge near the curb. Stainless steel or coated hardware is usually worth the extra cost in wet, salty, or coastal areas.
Before bolting anything down, check municipal right-of-way rules and permits. Trash cans should not block the pedestrian path, curb ramps, fire hydrants, or loading zones. In many places, you need to preserve a clear width for wheelchairs and strollers, and the can should be placed where collection crews can service it safely. A fixed can also needs drainage, a lid or liner system, and a maintenance plan because it can’t be moved for cleaning or snow removal.
A good installation typically includes a layout plan, concrete inspection, appropriate bit size, vacuuming dust, torqueing to manufacturer specs, and maybe caps or sealant to protect anchors. If the concrete is thin, crumbling, or post-tensioned, stop and consult an engineer; drilling into post-tensioned slabs can be dangerous. For high-theft areas, bolting can help, but don’t rely on anchors alone—choose heavy-duty cans and tamper-resistant fasteners.
So the short answer is yes: bolted trash cans on concrete sidewalks are common and practical when done with the right anchors, placement, permits, and maintenance. If you’re doing it for a city or property, confirm local specs first and use a contractor who understands public sidewalks.