I get this question a lot, and the honest answer is: some street benches do, but not all of them. Whether a bench comes with a clear coat for UV protection really depends on the material and the manufacturer.
Wooden street benches are the most likely to have a clear coat. Quality outdoor benches typically use a UV-resistant clear finish like spar urethane, marine-grade polyurethane, or exterior acrylic. These coatings contain UV absorbers that slow down sun damage. Without that layer, wood turns gray, dries out, and cracks much faster.
Metal benches are different. Many are powder coated instead of clear coated. A powder-coated finish is baked on and already handles UV rays and rust well, so an extra clear coat isn't always necessary. Some premium metal benches do get a clear powder topcoat for extra gloss and protection, but it's not a given.
Plastic and recycled lumber benches usually skip surface clear coats because UV stabilizers are mixed into the material itself. That's why they hold color without much maintenance.
If you're shopping, look for phrases like "UV-resistant clear coat," "marine-grade varnish," "exterior polyurethane," or "powder coated finish." If the bench only says "natural wood" or "painted metal" without mentioning UV protection, plan on applying a clear exterior finish yourself.
Even with a clear coat, maintenance matters. Sun and weather wear down any outdoor finish over time. For wood benches, I usually recommend lightly sanding and applying a fresh UV-blocking clear coat every one to three years. For metal, touch up scratches and chips so moisture doesn't get under the coating.
So yes, many street benches do have a clear coat to protect against UV damage, but don't assume all of them do. Check the finish details before you buy, and be ready for a little upkeep if you want the bench to last.