When considering waste management at public transit locations, the typical capacity for outdoor trash cans at city bus stops generally ranges between 20 to 35 gallons (75 to 130 liters). Municipalities commonly install medium-sized receptacles that can accommodate daily passenger waste without requiring excessive maintenance visits.
The specific capacity chosen often depends on several factors including passenger volume, frequency of trash collection services, and available space at the bus stop. High-traffic downtown locations might feature larger 35-gallon containers to handle increased usage, while residential neighborhood stops often utilize compact 20-gallon models.
Standard designs typically incorporate durable materials like galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic to withstand weather elements and regular use. Many cities now include recycling compartments alongside standard trash receptacles, creating combination units that maintain similar overall capacity while promoting waste separation.
Proper capacity selection balances practical considerations - containers must be large enough to prevent overflow between collections yet manageable for sanitation workers to empty efficiently. Most urban planners agree that 25-30 gallon containers offer the optimal balance for average bus stop locations, providing sufficient capacity while maintaining reasonable service intervals and preventing nuisance issues associated with overflowing bins.