That's a great question, and yes, absolutely! Outdoor trash cans with built-in ashtrays are becoming a common and smart solution in many public spaces. You'll often spot them outside office buildings, in hotel patio areas, at parks, and near restaurant entrances.
These combo units are designed to tackle a specific litter problem. The main compartment is for general waste, while the dedicated, often cylindrical or cup-like, ashtray on top is for safe cigarette butt and ash disposal. This separation is key—it helps prevent fires by ensuring smoldering butts are isolated from other flammable trash.
The benefits are clear: they keep grounds cleaner, reduce fire risk, and provide a convenient, responsible option for smokers. When choosing one, look for durable, weather-resistant materials like coated steel or aluminum. Features like a snuffer ridge or sand fill in the ashtray add extra safety. So, next time you're in a public area, look around—you're likely to see one of these practical bins doing its part to keep the environment tidy.