Yes—you can get a street bench without armrests, and it is a very reasonable request. Many standard public benches have armrests because they help people push up from a seated position, create visual boundaries, and discourage people from lying down. But those same full armrests can make a wheelchair transfer much harder, because they block a clear side approach or sideways slide.
If you are looking for a public street bench, the bench itself is usually installed and maintained by your city or town. You may not be able to pick the exact model, but you can absolutely ask for an accessible option. Contact your local parks department, public works department, streets division, or the municipality’s ADA or disability access coordinator. Try saying: “I use a wheelchair and I need a bench without armrests, or with open transfer space at one end, so I can sit safely.” Ask about specific locations such as a bus stop, park path, clinic entrance, curb ramp, or another place you use often.
The best public furniture solution is often a bench with armrests only at the ends or a center armrest instead of divided seats. This keeps some support for people who need it while leaving an open bay for a wheelchair user to transfer. Some benches also have one open end with no armrest, which works well if you can approach from the side. A nearby grab bar or pole can add safety without blocking the transfer.
If the city says no or replaces a bench with another standard model, you can ask for a reasonable modification under disability access laws, contact your local disability commission, speak at a public council meeting, or start a petition. It helps to name the exact block, park, or intersection and include a photo of the current bench. In many cases, the accessible bench costs the same or only slightly more, so this is usually a very solvable request.
For private property such as a business, school, or apartment complex, ask the property manager or facilities director. Commercial site furniture brands sell armrest-free benches, open-end benches, and wheelchair transfer benches. Some are called accessible benches, transfer benches, or open-seat benches. If you are buying one yourself, look for a seat height around 17–19 inches, a firm surface, a backrest, and clear level space beside the bench for your wheelchair.
You do not have to accept a bench that does not work for your body. An armrest-free or open-end bench is a practical, inclusive choice, and asking for one is a normal accessibility request.