Abstract: A refuse container incorporating a security locking mechanism disposed completely within the container and which is actuated only when the container is turned over. In one embodiment a weight is mounted to pivot by gravity through a circular path when the unit is tilted. A hammer carried by the weight strikes an anvil on a crank arm which operates through a toggle connecting link to pivot a locking lever. A detent on the locking lever is moved out of engagement with a perimeter frame which is pivotally mounted on the open end of the container. A closure lid which is independently locked to the frame swings open with the frame for discharging the contents. In another embodiment a weight is moved by gravity through an arc to strike and pivot a detent arm which normally retains a larger second weight. The second weight then moves by gravity along a linear path towards the end of a tube where it strikes and pivots a locking lever.