URBAN BENCHES

When examining urban benches with fixed armrests, many people wonder about their removability. These armrests are typically integrated into the bench design through welding or heavy-duty bolting, making removal challenging without professional tools and authorization. Municipalities install divided seating with armrests specifically to prevent homeless individuals from sleeping lying down, following what urban planners call "hostile architecture" or "defensive design" principles. While physically possible to remove them with angle grinders or similar equipment, doing so would constitute vandalism of public property and carry legal consequences. The armrests serve multiple purposes beyond discouraging sleeping - they provide crucial support for elderly and disabled individuals when sitting down or standing up. Rather than modifying existing benches, communities seeking more inclusive seating options can advocate for varied bench designs in public spaces, including some without armrests and others with back support. If you require armrest-free seating for specific needs, contacting your local parks department or public works office about installing accessible benches represents a more constructive approach than unauthorized modifications.