The best way is to use a tamper-resistant, corrosion-resistant anchor system that matches the concrete and the can. For most urban trash cans on sound, uncracked concrete, I’d start with stainless steel wedge anchors or sleeve anchors through a steel mounting plate or the can’s built-in feet. Use at least four anchors, and choose security heads or proprietary tamper-resistant bolts so the can is not easy to unbolt. Do not rely on plastic plugs or short screws for a public trash can; they will loosen and fail.
If the concrete is cracked, older, or subject to vibration, chemical anchors are usually the better choice. These use a two-part epoxy or adhesive capsule with threaded rod or a stud, and they bond well when installed correctly. That is often the best option for heavy cans, high-traffic sidewalks, and locations where the concrete may not be perfect. For cracked concrete, follow the anchor manufacturer’s guidance carefully, because not every mechanical anchor is rated for cracked concrete.
Installation matters as much as the anchor. Set the can in place and mark the holes through the base. Drill with a hammer drill using the exact bit size and depth specified by the anchor maker. Clean the holes thoroughly—blow them out and brush them—because dust is one of the most common reasons anchors fail. Use stainless washers and hardware, and add a threadlocker if the design allows it. Tighten to the manufacturer’s torque spec; over-tightening can crack the concrete or strip the anchor.
Also think about the base detail. A solid steel plate helps spread the load and makes the installation more durable than anchoring through thin plastic feet. If water pools around the can, use standoffs or a base design that lets water drain, and seal only where the manufacturer recommends. Check local sidewalk clearance and accessibility rules before drilling, and avoid anchoring into thin patching material or pavers. In short: stainless tamper-resistant wedge anchors for good concrete, chemical anchors for cracked or high-stress concrete, and careful drilling and hole cleaning every time.