For most high-traffic sidewalks, I’d put the sweet spot at about 50–100 gallons—often a 55- or 65-gallon bin in mixed pedestrian areas and a 95-gallon unit where foot traffic and food waste are heavy. That range holds enough waste to avoid constant overflow without turning the sidewalk into an obstacle course. If collection happens daily or twice daily, you can stay closer to 50–65 gallons; if pickup is less frequent, go larger, but make sure the footprint leaves a clear walking path.
Capacity alone won’t solve the problem. Use a sturdy liner, a controlled opening that discourages household trash, and a lid that keeps rain out. Also match the bin to collection logistics: a 95-gallon container is only helpful if crews can service it quickly and safely. In busy commercial districts, I’d rather see several well-placed 55–65 gallon cans emptied often than one huge can that overflows by noon.
So for high-traffic sidewalks, plan on 50–100 gallon receptacles, choose the smaller end when service is frequent, and size up only when pickup schedules and sidewalk width support it.