How do I get RID of these FLYS?

I've had to move to this area called Van Nuys & have had the worst problem with FLYS around the communal trash area. My neighbors rarely use sanitary means of disposing their trash, like using a trash bag. After I saw maggots I finally asked my landlord if I could move my own trashcan behind my own back door and it helps alittle but still get flys us the wazoo. I use trash bags, It's just horrible so I was wondering if anyone has a trick that will help? I don't want to use those disgustingly ugly strips and I just put Ammonia over the top which drains to the bottom of the container...is there anything else I can do?