Short answer: yes—often, but usually not because there’s a special “trash can standard.” In the U.S., public trash cans may fall under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design or local public right-of-way accessibility rules when they’re part of a public facility, sidewalk, park, transit stop, or commercial site. The key idea is that the can and its location must be usable by people with disabilities, not just that the can itself is “accessible.
Practically, that means a few things. The opening or operable parts should be within a comfortable reach range—commonly between about 15 and 48 inches above the ground for adults using a clear approach. There should be enough clear floor or ground space for a wheelchair or mobility device to approach, usually around 30 by 48 inches, without blocking the accessible route. Lids, doors, and handles should be operable with one hand and without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting, and with limited force. If the can has a swing door or push flap, it should be easy to use and not snap back hard.
Location matters just as much as the product. A can placed at the edge of a sidewalk can narrow the route or become a protruding hazard for people who are blind or have low vision. In public rights-of-way, designers often need to keep the can out of the pedestrian access route, provide cane detection where required, and make sure the surface around it is firm and stable. Contrast and clear signage can also help people find the opening, although they aren’t always mandatory.
Requirements vary a lot by jurisdiction. Some cities have their own street furniture manuals or accessibility checklists; others rely on broader ADA, state, or local building codes. Private property rules can differ from public sidewalk rules. So if you’re buying or placing urban trash cans, don’t assume that any sturdy can will do. Check with the local public works or accessibility office, and ask specifically about reach range, clear space, operable force, route clearance, and opening height.
In short: urban trash cans don’t always have a separate accessibility certification, but the can and its installation often do need to meet accessibility standards. The safest approach is to choose a can that can be approached, reached, and operated easily—and then place it so it doesn’t block the path.