Great question, and one that comes up a lot when people are planning a backyard fire pit area. The honest answer is that not all park benches are flame-resistant enough to sit right next to a fire pit. Whether a particular bench is safe depends almost entirely on what it is made from and how it is constructed.
Metal benches are usually the safest choice. Aluminum, cast aluminum, steel, and wrought iron are non-combustible, so they will not catch fire from stray sparks. That said, a powder-coated metal bench can still scorch or discolor if it is too close to high heat, and metal can get hot to the touch. So even with metal, you will want to leave a few feet of clearance.
Wood benches are more of a mixed bag. Untreated pine, cedar, or other softwoods can ignite fairly easily if embers land on them. Hardwoods like teak, oak, or ipe are denser and less likely to catch a spark, but they are still not fireproof. Some wood benches are advertised as fire-retardant or pressure-treated with flame-resistant chemicals, which helps, but they still need to be inspected for cracks, dry rot, or built-up debris.
Recycled plastic or poly lumber benches are popular because they are weather-resistant, but many of them soften, warp, or melt when they are exposed to the sustained heat of a fire pit. Some high-density polyethylene products do carry a fire rating, but you should not assume that all plastic benches are safe. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before placing one near an open flame.
Concrete, stone, or cast stone benches are excellent from a fire-resistance standpoint. They are non-combustible, handle high temperatures well, and will not be damaged by the occasional spark. Their main downsides are weight and cost, but if fire safety is your top priority, they are hard to beat.
If you already own a bench and you are not sure what it is made from, the safest approach is to keep it at least three to five feet away from the fire pit ring. That distance reduces direct heat exposure and gives sparks time to cool before they land. Also remove cushions, blankets, or any fabric accessories unless they are specifically labeled flame-resistant. Even flame-resistant fabrics can degrade over time, so it is worth inspecting them each season.
A few practical tips: look for terms like non-combustible, fire-rated, Class A, or flame-retardant when shopping. Avoid benches with lots of crevices where pine needles, leaves, or paper can collect, because those little pockets of debris are exactly where an ember can start a problem. If you live in an area with wildfire concerns or strict fire codes, check local regulations before setting up any seating near an open flame.
So if you are asking, "Are these park benches flame-resistant for use near fire pits?" the best answer is: check the label and the material. Metal and concrete are naturally non-combustible. Wood can be okay if it is dense or treated, but it still needs clearance. Plastic benches are the most likely to melt or warp near high heat. When in doubt, keep the bench a safe distance away and never leave a fire unattended.