Many people wonder if the armrests on public park benches can be removed, whether for accessibility reasons, personal comfort, or space requirements. The short answer is: while physically possible in many cases, removing bench armrests is generally not recommended and may be illegal.
Most public park benches with fixed armrests are designed this way intentionally. The armrests serve important functions - they provide support for elderly visitors, prevent people from lying down extensively, and maintain the bench's structural integrity. Attempting to remove them typically requires tools like saws or wrenches, which could damage the bench permanently.
There are significant considerations before attempting removal. Modifying public property often violates municipal regulations and could result in fines. Many communities install benches with divided armrests specifically to discourage homeless individuals from sleeping on them, making removal legally problematic.
If you need bench accommodations for accessibility reasons, your best approach is to contact your local parks department directly. Many municipalities now install accessible benches without armrests or with removable options in specific locations. For private property benches, consulting the manufacturer about modification options is safer than DIY attempts.
While the temptation to remove inconvenient armrests might be strong, the potential legal consequences and safety risks make alternative solutions worth exploring before taking any action.