Yes, most wooden street benches made for public or commercial use are treated to resist termites and wood rot, but the level of protection depends on the wood species, treatment method, and how well the bench is maintained over time.
The most common approach is pressure-treated lumber. In this process, preservatives are forced deep into the wood fibers under pressure. That makes the wood less appetizing to termites and much more resistant to the fungi that cause rot. You will often see this in pine or fir benches because those species would otherwise break down quickly outdoors.
Some benches skip chemical treatment by using naturally durable wood. Teak, cedar, redwood, white oak, black locust, and ipe contain natural oils or tannins that resist insects and decay. These woods still weather and change color, but they can last for decades if they are cleaned and sealed occasionally.
In addition to the wood itself, many manufacturers apply a surface sealant, stain, or paint. A quality exterior sealant slows moisture absorption, which is key because wood rot usually starts when water gets trapped in joints, end grain, or cracks. Sealing the end grain and any drilled holes is especially important for street benches exposed to rain, sprinklers, and morning dew.
That said, not every street bench is fully protected forever. A cheap bench made from untreated pine or low-quality plywood will be vulnerable to termites and rot quickly. Even a pressure-treated bench can develop problems if the wood is cut and the cut ends are not resealed, or if the bench sits in constant contact with wet soil. Termites are also less of a threat if the bench is placed on concrete rather than directly on grass or mulch, because soil contact makes it easier for termites to find and enter the wood.
If you are buying or installing a street bench, look for terms like pressure-treated, kiln-dried, rot-resistant, or naturally durable hardwood. Also check whether the manufacturer recommends applying a fresh coat of wood sealer every one to three years. For very wet or termite-heavy areas, a bench with a metal or recycled plastic frame may be the lowest-maintenance option.
So the short answer is: yes, properly made wooden street benches are usually treated to resist termites and wood rot, but they are not maintenance-free. Choosing the right wood or treatment, sealing exposed cuts, keeping the bench off direct soil, and doing occasional surface maintenance will give it the longest life.