That's a fantastic and creative question! The short answer is: it's possible, but it's almost never a simple DIY project you can do on any public bin. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works.
First and foremost, you cannot legally modify public property. Walking up to a city-owned trash can and applying your logo is considered vandalism. The proper channel is through a partnership with your local municipal government or public works department. Many cities have "Adopt-a-Spot" or public space sponsorship programs where businesses can fund the maintenance of items like benches, planters, or trash cans in exchange for a small, discreet recognition plaque or decal.
Alternatively, some specialized outdoor advertising and street furniture companies partner with municipalities to install and maintain high-quality public bins. They often sell advertising space on these units to local businesses. Your best first step is to contact your city hall and inquire about existing public-private partnership programs for street furniture.
If you're looking for bins on private property—like outside your own shop, in a shopping mall complex, or at a private event—you have full control. You can purchase commercial-grade urban trash cans and have them professionally custom printed or vinyl-wrapped with your logo. This is a great way to enhance brand visibility in your immediate vicinity.
The benefits are unique: it's a form of useful, community-minded advertising that people encounter daily. It positions your brand as invested in local cleanliness and infrastructure. However, consider the costs (sponsorship fees or bin purchase + printing), city regulations, and ensuring the design is tasteful and not visually polluting.
So, while you can't simply print on any random city bin, with the right approach and permissions, a branded trash can can be a clever and impactful piece of your local marketing strategy.