This is an excellent and crucial question for any municipality, park manager, or urban planner. The short answer is: they absolutely should. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets forth specific requirements for benches to ensure they are accessible and usable for individuals with disabilities, particularly those who use mobility aids.
For benches with armrests, the ADA Standards for Accessible Design are precise. The height of the armrests from the ground must be between 28 and 34 inches. This range is designed to provide support and stability for individuals when sitting down or standing up. Furthermore, the clearance between the armrests—or the open seating space if there are no armrests—is equally critical. This clear space must be at least 42 inches wide to accommodate a person using a wheelchair to pull up alongside the bench for transfer or conversation. This is often referred to as "transfer space."
Many traditional, solid-back, solid-seat benches do not meet these criteria. Compliance is not just about avoiding legal issues; it's about fostering inclusive public spaces where everyone can rest and socialize. When procuring or installing new urban benches, always look for specifications stating "ADA compliant" and verify the armrest height and clearance measurements. For existing benches, a simple audit with a measuring tape can determine if an upgrade is necessary to serve your entire community equitably.