That's an excellent and practical question. The short answer is yes, an outdoor trash bin can be permanently bolted to a concrete sidewalk, but it comes with significant considerations beyond just the physical installation.
From a technical standpoint, it is entirely possible. The process typically involves using concrete anchors, such as sleeve anchors, wedge anchors, or chemical anchors. You would mark and drill holes into the concrete, insert the anchors, position the bin's base plate (if it has one), and then tighten the bolts. This method is very effective for preventing theft, vandalism, or the bin being blown over by strong winds.
However, the major hurdle is rarely the "how," but the "if you should." In most urban and suburban areas, the sidewalk is almost always public right-of-way. Permanently attaching a private structure to it usually requires explicit permission from your local municipal authority or public works department. Doing it without approval could violate city ordinances, creating liability issues if someone trips on the hardware or if the city needs to perform repairs. They could order you to remove it and possibly issue a fine.
If you are part of a private business or managing private property like a condo courtyard, the rules may be different, but checking with property management remains crucial.
If your primary goal is stability rather than absolute permanence, consider heavy-duty, removable alternatives. Weighted bins, bins that can be chained to a fixed post, or bins placed within a anchored metal holder offer security while maintaining flexibility.
In summary: Technically feasible? Absolutely. Legally advisable? Only with proper authorization. Always consult your local authorities first to avoid costly mistakes and ensure public safety.