This is a common question for those seeking more flexible public seating. The direct answer is: it's often possible, but it's usually not recommended or legal to do so yourself. Park bench armrests, sometimes called "hostile architecture" or "anti-homeless" features, are typically installed for specific reasons. They provide support for the elderly and disabled, define individual seating spaces to prevent lying down, and are integral to the bench's structural design. Removing them can weaken the bench, create sharp, hazardous edges, and violate municipal codes or vandalism laws.
If armrests are a genuine barrier, consider contacting your local parks and recreation department. They may accommodate requests for bench modifications in certain areas or have plans for more inclusive seating. For private property, consult the manufacturer's instructions. Removal usually requires specific tools like a socket wrench to unbolt them from the frame. Remember, altering public property without permission is illegal. A better solution is to advocate for and support the installation of diverse public seating that accommodates everyone's needs without the need for modification.