The best approach is not one trick but a combination: use a heavy-duty bin with a weighted base, anchor it to a concrete pad, and keep the lid locked or latched. In urban settings, wind gets funneled between buildings, so a normal plastic bin with a loose lid is basically a sail. A concrete pad with wedge anchors or expansion bolts gives you the most reliable hold; if the bin has mounting tabs, use them. For bins that collection crews need to move, choose quick-release straps or hinged anchors rather than permanent chains that slow servicing and create trip hazards.
Weight matters, but put it in the base, not loose inside the bin. Sandbags, interlocking concrete weights, or manufacturer-approved ballast plates work well. Keep the lid closed and latched, and do not overfill—overflowing bins catch wind and make lids pop open. Empty them on a reliable schedule; a full bin is heavier, but a loose lid and debris are the real problem.
Placement helps a lot. Put bins in sheltered spots away from corners, alley wind tunnels, and exposed rooftops, while still keeping them accessible for pickup. For temporary events, use portable weighted bases plus ratchet straps to ground anchors. Check local codes and collection-worker safety before drilling or strapping anything down. If you do only one thing, anchor the bin to concrete and add a lockable lid—that solves most blow-away cases.