Dealing with skateboarders grinding on the armrests of your street benches can be frustrating. Not only does it create noise, but it also damages the furniture and can make the bench less welcoming for people who actually want to sit down. The good news is that you have several practical options to deter skateboarding without resorting to hostility. Here are some effective methods that balance public usability, durability, and respect for the local skate community.
One of the most reliable approaches is to install physical anti-skate devices directly onto the armrests. These are small metal or plastic protrusions, often called skate stoppers or grind blockers, that make the surface uneven and nearly impossible to slide a skateboard deck across. They come in various shapes and sizes, and many are designed to blend in with the bench’s existing hardware. When choosing these, look for models that are robust, weather-resistant, and difficult to remove with common tools. Bolt them or use tamper-resistant screws to prevent them from being pried off. While they are very effective, be sure to place them in a pattern that still allows people to rest their arms comfortably without sharp edges.
Another strategy is to modify the bench design itself. If you have control over the bench’s purchase or replacement, opt for armrests that are curved, angled, or have a rounded top rather than a flat, smooth ledge. Flat horizontal surfaces are a skateboarder’s dream because they provide a stable grinding surface. A sloped armrest or one with a textured, rough coating makes grinding much less satisfying. You can achieve a similar effect by applying a durable, non-slip adhesive strip or a thick anti-graffiti coating mixed with sand or grit to the top of the armrest. This won’t harm skateboarders, but it will ruin the smooth slide they need.
Changing the surrounding environment can also help. Many skateboarders choose benches because they provide a nice run-up and landing zone. If you place large planters, decorative boulders, or even a row of low shrubs close to the bench, you interrupt the approach path. Skateboarders need a clear line to build speed and ride away safely. By simply breaking that flow with landscaping, you make the bench far less attractive without having to touch the bench itself. Just be mindful of accessibility requirements and ensure you do not block wheelchair paths or pedestrian walkways.
If you are dealing with a public bench that is managed by a city or a property management company, contact the responsible authority. Explain the damage and noise problem, and ask them to install skate deterrents or choose different bench models. Many municipalities have dedicated funds for anti-vandalism improvements. You can also request that they place “No Skateboarding” signs nearby, but be aware that signs alone rarely stop determined skateboarders. They work best when combined with one of the physical deterrents mentioned above.
Finally, consider a positive, community-based approach. Some neighborhoods have successfully reduced unwanted skateboarding by working with local skaters to create a designated skate spot nearby. Skaters often grind on benches because they lack proper obstacles like rails, ledges, or boxes. If there is an unused corner of a park or a paved area away from homes, you could propose a small skate feature. This doesn’t have to be expensive — a simple concrete ledge or a metal rail can redirect the activity. When skaters have a better place to go, they are much less likely to damage street furniture.
Whichever method you choose, aim for solutions that are humane, legal, and low-maintenance. Avoid techniques that could cause injury, such as applying grease or installing sharp spikes. Not only do these create liability issues, but they also tend to escalate hostility. A well-placed skate stopper, a texture change, or a thoughtful landscaping tweak will usually solve the problem quietly and effectively.