Yes, they exist—but I’d be careful with the phrase “can’t chew through.” Rats are persistent, and no ordinary bin is truly invincible if it’s damaged, poorly closed, or left overflowing. That said, some urban trash cans are designed to be much harder for rats to chew into or access.
The most reliable ones tend to be made of thick metal, such as galvanized steel or stainless steel. Heavy-duty hard plastic bins can also work if the walls are thick and reinforced, but thin plastic is usually no match for a determined rat. A good rat-resistant bin also needs a locking, weighted, or tightly fitted lid, smooth edges, and no easy gaps around the hinges, wheels, or base. If a rat can squeeze a paw or nose into a crack, it will keep working at it.
Many cities now use large underground or semi-underground containers with metal rims and secure openings. Some newer “smart” bins have sensors and compacting systems, but the key isn’t really the technology—it’s whether the bin blocks smell, keeps waste inside, and closes properly every time. A metal can with a loose lid is still a rat buffet.
I’d also say this: the bin alone isn’t enough. Rats don’t just chew through containers; they feed on bags left beside them, spills, and overflowing waste. So the best urban trash cans combine chew-resistant materials, secure lids, regular emptying, and public habits that keep garbage off the ground. If you’re choosing one for a city street or building, look for thick metal construction, a locking lid, few gaps, and a design that’s easy to clean and maintain. That’s about as close to rat-proof as you can realistically get.