Yes—many cities do use urban trash cans with smaller openings to discourage household trash. The idea is straightforward: a narrow slot or small aperture makes it hard to drop in a full kitchen bag, so people are less likely to treat a sidewalk bin as a free dumpster. Instead, they have to push items in one at a time, which is inconvenient and very visible on a busy street.
You’ll see this most often in public bins at transit stops, parks, plazas, and shopping districts. Some have simple fixed openings; others use anti-dumping flaps or one-way openings that spring back. Designers often pair a small opening with a clear “litter only” label, a limited-capacity liner, and regular collection. In some downtowns, solar compacting bins also use restricted openings because they can hold more waste without becoming an easy target for household bags.
Do they work? Partly. They are a useful deterrent, but not a perfect solution. Determined people can still stuff small bags through, lift lids where possible, or leave bags beside the bin. That’s why cities combine design with enforcement, cameras in hotspots, signage, and convenient official disposal options. The best results usually come from making household trash easy to dispose of legally and making misuse of public bins less convenient.
There are trade-offs, too. An opening that is too small can cause litter if people give up and drop items on the ground, and it can be difficult for users with limited dexterity. Good waste management design balances deterrence with accessibility, capacity, and maintenance. So if you’re asking whether these bins exist: yes, they are common. If you’re designing one, a smaller opening can help, but it works best as part of a wider strategy rather than as a stand-alone fix.