That's a great question, and something I notice more and more in cities nowadays. Yes, absolutely, most public trash bins I see come with some form of signage. It's become pretty standard.
The most common sign is the universal "No Littering" symbol or a direct text warning, often accompanied by a potential fine amount. This is a straightforward message to keep public spaces clean. But the more interesting signage is on recycling bins. You'll typically find clear, sometimes color-coded labels with icons and text specifying what goes where—paper, plastic, glass, and general waste. In some forward-thinking districts, I've even seen small instructional graphics on regular bins showing how to properly dispose of items like coffee cups (lid in recycling, cup in trash).
The design and clarity of this signage vary. In well-funded areas, bins have durable, etched metal signs or full-color vinyl wraps that are easy to understand. The goal is to remove guesswork and encourage proper sorting right at the point of disposal. While not every single bin is perfectly labeled, there's a clear effort to use signage as a quiet, constant guide for public behavior, making waste management more effective for everyone.