What are the fire-retardant regulations for plastic outdoor trash cans in urban areas?

Urban areas implement strict fire-retardant regulations for plastic outdoor trash cans to mitigate fire risks in public spaces. These regulations typically require trash receptacles to meet specific flame spread indices and smoke density ratings, often tested according to standards like ASTM E84 or UL 94. Municipal codes may mandate self-extinguishing properties where materials must cease burning within 30 seconds after flame removal. Many jurisdictions require plastics to contain fire-retardant additives like aluminum trihydroxide or brominated compounds while maintaining durability and weather resistance. Regular compliance testing and certification from recognized bodies like FM Approvals or UL Solutions are typically required. These measures help prevent trash can fires from spreading to buildings or vegetation, particularly in high-density urban environments where fire safety is paramount.