That's a really practical question that comes up often in busy urban areas! The short answer is: you typically should not remove the armrests from public benches, even if you need more seating space. Here's why.
Most public benches are installed as permanent fixtures. Their armrests aren't designed to be removed by the public. They're usually bolted or welded on securely. Trying to remove them could damage the bench, create sharp edges that are safety hazards, and might even be considered vandalism or tampering with public property.
You might wonder, "Why are they even there if they reduce seating?" Those armrests, often called "hostile architecture" or "defensive design," serve intentional purposes. They prevent people from lying down across the bench, which can help manage homelessness in some areas (a controversial practice). More commonly, they provide crucial support for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues to sit down and stand up safely. They also naturally divide the bench into individual seats, which can make sitting next to strangers feel more comfortable for some people.
If you're facing a genuine shortage of public seating in your community, there are better approaches. You could contact your local parks department or city council to advocate for installing additional benches without armrests or with different designs. Some modern benches feature fold-down or movable seats that offer flexibility. Community groups sometimes also provide supplemental seating like movable chairs for public events.
So, while the urge to create more space is understandable, the solution isn't to alter existing benches. It's about advocating for smarter, more inclusive public furniture that meets the diverse needs of all city dwellers.