That's an excellent and practical question! Properly securing public trash bins is crucial for safety, preventing theft, and maintaining clean streets. Here’s how professionals typically do it:
The most secure and permanent method involves a concrete foundation. A concrete pad is poured directly on the compacted sub-base of the sidewalk. While the concrete is still wet, heavy-duty anchor bolts or a specialized anchor plate (often called a "ground socket" or "bin holder") is embedded into it. The bin's base is then bolted directly to these anchors. This method is virtually impossible to remove without power tools.
For existing concrete sidewalks without pre-embedded anchors, through-bolting is an option. This requires core drilling holes through the sidewalk slab to insert bolt anchors from underneath, which are then tightened on top. This is invasive and usually requires municipal approval.
Many cities now use "anti-theft" or "security" anchors. These are specialized bolts that require unique, non-standard tools to loosen (like a security star or pentagon key), deterring casual vandalism. Coupling these with a locked bin lid provides comprehensive security.
Placement is also part of security. Bins should be installed close to walls, lamp posts, or other fixed structures when possible, making it harder to rock or lift them. They must always be placed to maintain clear pedestrian access—typically at least 4-5 feet of clear walkway must remain.
Regular maintenance checks are essential. Workers should periodically check anchor tightness and the condition of the concrete base for cracks or heaving, especially after winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Ultimately, the best practice is a combination: a sturdy, weighted bin model, permanently anchored into a concrete base with anti-theft hardware, placed thoughtfully to serve the public without obstructing the right-of-way. Always check with your local public works department for specific codes and approved methods in your area.