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Trash / Recycling Receptacle

ELM-TRR-32
Recommended Element

Trash / Recycling Receptacle

A fixed waste and recycling container installed in the public right-of-way or an adjacent public space, providing a designated disposal point for pedestrians and street users.

#Why this pattern exists

Without a designated disposal point, litter accumulates in places people already gather or pass through; this pattern exists to document placement and servicing considerations that determine whether a receptacle actually reduces litter or becomes an overflowing problem itself.1

#Key considerations

  • Servicing frequency must match actual usage volume at the location; an under-serviced receptacle in a high-traffic area quickly overflows and undermines its own purpose
  • Placement near activity generators (transit stops, plazas, commercial frontages) sees more appropriate use than placement based on even spacing alone
  • Design should resist wildlife access and weather intrusion where relevant to the local context

Bench (ELM-BCH-31), Transit Shelter (FAC-TSH-01) (common companion elements and facilities)

#References

  1. Legal / regulatory PROWAG, Section R212, "Street Furniture." General accessible placement requirements for street furniture.(opens in new tab)

Suggest changes to this page (opens in new tab) Text-only version Last updated September 26, 2026