That's an excellent and practical question! Keeping public trash bins from walking away is a common challenge in cities and parks. The best approach combines physical security with smart placement. Here are the most effective methods I've seen:
For permanent installation, concrete anchors are the gold standard. Use heavy-duty expanding bolt anchors (like wedge anchors or sleeve anchors) drilled through the bin's base plate into concrete pavement. Always use at least four anchors per bin. For areas without existing concrete, consider pouring a small concrete footing with embedded anchor bolts or a welded steel loop that the bin chain locks to.
Commercial anti-theft brackets are another great option. These are heavy steel frames that bolt to the ground, with a central post that slides into the bin's center cavity. The bin simply drops in but can't be lifted out. Some models include a locking mechanism for added security.
For less permanent but still effective solutions, consider heavy-duty ground anchors with security chains or cables. Use a robust anchor screw (designed for playground equipment or dog ties) sunk deep into soil or asphalt, paired with a case-hardened steel chain and a quality padlock through the bin's handle or frame. Just ensure the chain's attachment point on the bin is reinforced.
Welding the bin to a fixed metal base plate that is itself anchored is common in high-theft areas. This is a more industrial solution best handled by municipal maintenance crews.
Beyond hardware, placement matters. Position bins in well-lit, high-visibility areas near pedestrian traffic. Theft often happens under cover of darkness or isolation. Using inherently heavy bins, like concrete-lined or cast iron models, also adds a natural deterrent.
The key is matching the method to your specific location and threat level. A combination of a solid physical anchor and strategic placement is usually the winning strategy for keeping your urban trash bins right where they belong.