That's an excellent and very practical question for city dwellers and planners! Yes, absolutely. Narrow profile trash cans are a specialized and increasingly common solution specifically designed for tight urban sidewalks where space is at a premium.
These bins are engineered with a slim, vertical footprint—often as narrow as 12 to 18 inches wide—while maintaining a standard or even increased height and capacity. Instead of a wide, round base, they feature a tall, rectangular, or oval design that tucks neatly against building walls, light poles, or between other street furniture without becoming a tripping hazard for pedestrians. Materials like coated steel or durable, space-efficient polymers are common.
The key benefits are clear: they keep streets clean by providing a necessary service without encroaching on the precious pedestrian right-of-way. You'll often spot these streamlined bins in historic districts with narrow walkways, bustling downtown corridors, near transit stops, or in any area with high foot traffic and limited space. Many models also incorporate smart features like large, narrow openings for easy disposal and secure, animal-resistant lids. So, the next time you're on a cramped city street, look closely—that sleek, unobtrusive unit against the wall is doing a big job in a small space.