URBAN TRASH CANS

For residential apartment buildings, the most secure type of outdoor trash can is typically a heavy-duty, commercially rated steel dumpster with a locking, animal-proof lid. These units are designed for high-volume use and deterrence. Key security features to look for include a sturdy steel construction that resists tampering and weathering, a heavy locking lid mechanism—often a bar or latch that requires a key or combination—to prevent unauthorized dumping and animal access, and a seamless, rounded design that eliminates edges where pests like raccoons can pry. The dumpster should be placed on a concrete pad within a defined enclosure, if possible, to prevent moving and control the area. While metal is standard, some high-security models use reinforced, durable polymer composites. Ultimately, partnering with a professional waste management company for a leased, serviced dumpster ensures regular pickup, maintenance, and often the most robust, purpose-built containers for communal residential use, balancing security, capacity, and practicality.