Whether it’s a single-family home or a multi-unit property: Open trash bins spoil the look, smell in summer, and attract animals. A trash bin enclosure solves all three problems at once—provided the size, material, and location are right. This guide explains what to look for when buying, when a walk-in trash bin shelter is worth considering, and how much quality metal solutions cost.
Why a trash bin enclosure? Three problems, one solution
A closed enclosure shields the bins from direct sunlight—the contents heat up less, and fermentation and odor formation are noticeably reduced. At the same time, raccoons, martens, and rats can no longer get to the waste, and a lockable door prevents unauthorized use. Last but not least, a high-quality enclosure visibly enhances the entrance area.
What size do I need: 120 or 240 liters?
The key factor is the capacity of your municipal bins: the usual sizes are 120 liters (often for general waste) and 240 liters (often for paper). Before buying, check the specifications from your waste disposal provider and measure the available space. As a guide, an enclosure for 2 bins measures around 148 × 78 × 122 cm (W × D × H); each additional bin requires about 70–75 cm of extra width. For entire groups of bins—such as at apartment buildings—walk-in trash bin shelters are the better choice.
Comparing materials: Which lasts the longest?
Stainless steel (V2A)
Rustproof, easy to maintain, and dimensionally stable for decades—the premium solution. Our article V2A & V4A stainless steel—differences and quality explains what to look for.
Hot-dip galvanized, color-coated steel
Galvanized steel with a powder-coat finish (e.g., RAL 7016 anthracite gray) offers double corrosion protection at an attractive price. Read more about the process in Powder coating in metal construction and Hot-dip galvanized vs. electrogalvanized.
Wood and stainless steel combination
Weather-resistant wood (e.g., larch) on a stainless steel frame adds warmth to naturally landscaped front gardens—and lasts significantly longer than an all-wood enclosure.
Plastic and concrete
Plastic enclosures are inexpensive but sensitive to UV and not very sturdy; concrete is solid but difficult to move and inflexible in design. For most properties, metal enclosures offer the best balance of durability, weight, and appearance.
Convenience features: hinged roof, planted roof, gas struts
A hinged roof with gas struts opens on its own with a light touch—handy when your hands are full. A green planted roof with a waterproof tray, expanded clay drainage, and sedum planting turns the enclosure into a landscaping feature. Lockable doors and sturdy back panels come as standard with high-quality metal enclosures.
Location and building regulations: Can the enclosure go on the boundary?
In most German states, trash bin enclosures up to 2 m high are classified under building regulations as fencing or a subordinate structure, so they can generally be placed directly on the property boundary. Compact enclosures, at around 1.22 m high, are well below this limit; walk-in trash bin shelters are subject to separate rules depending on the state. Your local building authority can provide binding information for your location. Practical considerations: keep the route to the street short for collection day, and secure the enclosure against strong winds using the base plate.
Fully assembled or flat-pack?
Fully assembled enclosures are delivered by freight and only need to be positioned—ideal if you want a quick solution. Flat-pack systems such as our BINBOX range save on freight volume and therefore costs; with the instructions and adjustable feet, assembly is straightforward even on slightly uneven ground.
Trash bin shelters and walk-in enclosures: When a standard enclosure is no longer enough
With around four bins—typical for apartment buildings, property management companies, and commercial sites—the classic enclosure reaches its limits. The solution is a walk-in trash bin shelter: a covered structure with doors that keeps groups of bins neatly arranged, protected, and locked away. Our shelters come in seven sizes, from Size 1 (269 × 180 cm) to Size 6 (531 × 354 cm), each with either Douglas fir cladding or stainless steel perforated sheet. Perforated sheet doors provide continuous ventilation while fully screening the contents from view; optional gutters channel rainwater away in a controlled manner, while support-leg extensions compensate for uneven terrain. An added benefit for making the most of your space: the same enclosure can also serve as a bicycle shelter for bicycles and e-bikes. Find all sizes and designs under trash bin shelters and walk-in enclosures.
How much does a metal trash bin enclosure cost?
Some guide prices from our shop (as of 07/2026):
- Single-bin stainless steel enclosure with wooden posts: from €875.88
- Single-bin stainless steel enclosure: from €1,268.05
- Lockable BINBOX steel enclosure: from €1,344.70 (1 bin) to €3,321.29 (4 bins)
- Two-bin enclosures: from approx. €1,580–2,023, depending on the range
- Walk-in trash bin shelters: from €6,679.80 (Size 1) to €14,274 (Size 6, stainless steel perforated sheet)
Cheap products made from thin sheet metal rust quickly and warp—a specialist-built enclosure made from galvanized or rustproof material, on the other hand, will last for decades.
Conclusion: Measure first, then choose a material
Check bin sizes and the available space, choose a material to suit your style and budget, and look for lockable doors, gas struts, and secure anchoring against strong winds. You can find all models—from the classic stainless steel option and the steel BINBOX to the wood and stainless steel combination—in our trash bin enclosures overview; for larger groups of bins, visit our walk-in trash bin shelters—Made in Germany, with up to a 10-year warranty.
