That's an excellent question! Dealing with a broken trash can can be surprisingly tricky, but there are several responsible ways to handle it. First and most importantly, you should contact your local municipal waste management authority or public works department. Many cities have specific protocols for disposing of broken municipal property, even if it's placed on your curb. They might schedule a special pickup for bulky items.
If the trash can is metal, check if your community has a recycling program that accepts such items. This is often the most environmentally friendly option. For plastic bins, the recycling potential depends on your local facility's capabilities. If the can is badly damaged and cannot be recycled through regular channels, your municipality might direct you to dispose of it as bulk trash on your designated collection day.
Never just leave it on the sidewalk hoping someone will take it, as this can create litter and violate local ordinances. The key is to check with your local authorities first—they'll give you the correct procedure for your specific area and help ensure the broken can is handled properly.