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In a creative response to a very local problem, San Francisco has installed specially designed trash cans to handle discarded pizza boxes in the city’s North Beach neighbourhood.

The new square-shaped bins, featuring wide slots to fit pizza boxes, were placed at Washington Square Park on Friday. The area is a popular gathering spot for residents and tourists who enjoy takeaway pizza from nearby eateries.

According to city officials, overflowing pizza boxes had become a recurring issue, often leading to blocked trash bins and increased litter.

A simple fix for a persistent civic issue

District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter said the initiative was aimed at making waste disposal easier for people enjoying food outdoors.

“When people finish their pizza and want to dispose of their box properly, they’ll now have the right place to do it,” Sauter said in a statement.

Washington Square Park is located within walking distance of several well-known pizza restaurants, making it a frequent picnic destination. However, traditional public bins were not designed to accommodate large, flat pizza boxes, even when folded.

City departments join hands

San Francisco Public Works Director Carla Short welcomed the move, noting that the bins would help prevent unnecessary litter.

“It’s great people are enjoying a delicious slice or a whole pie in North Beach. These bins make it easier to discard empty containers responsibly,” she said.

The project was carried out by the Department of Public Works in partnership with Recology, the city’s waste management provider.

Art meets utility

Adding a splash of colour, the bins are wrapped in artwork by San Francisco-based artist Sirron Norris, known for his work on the animated television series Bob’s Burgers.

Sauter’s office said the effectiveness of the bins will be reviewed based on public feedback, with the possibility of expanding the initiative to other areas if successful.