A hands-free trash barrel lid opener utilizes an actuating mechanism that is secured at the lower end of the trash barrel. A mounting means affixes the actuating mechanism to the lower end of the trash barrel. Connecting cables run along the outside of the barrel to connect the actuating mechanism to a lid control mechanism that is affixed to the trash barrel lid. The lid control mechanism includes leverage arms that receive the ends of the connecting cables. A stabilizing bar that is positioned at the back of the trash barrel includes a counterbalance means, typically a spring, that urges the lid of the trash barrel back to a closed position when the actuating lever is released. The opener is constructed so that it can remain in position when the trash barrel is lifted by mechanical arms on a garbage truck.
