Yes—bolting down is one of the most reliable ways to keep urban outdoor furniture from blowing away, but it is not a one-size-fits-all fix. The right answer depends on the furniture, the ground surface, local wind conditions, and how the space is used. A lightweight bench or café table in a windy plaza, rooftop, or building corridor may need anchoring even if it feels stable on a calm day. Heavier pieces can still move in strong gusts, especially if they have sail-like backs, signs, or canopies.
The anchoring method matters as much as the bolt. On concrete, wedge anchors or cast-in anchors are common; on pavers, hidden plates or weighted bases may work better; on timber decks, through-bolting into framing is often needed. Asphalt and gravel are trickier, so weighted bases, ground sleeves, or removable anchor systems may be safer. It is also important to check uplift as well as sideways movement, because wind can lift furniture before it slides.
For public spaces, I would treat bolting as part of a wider safety plan. Use stainless or galvanized hardware to reduce rust, keep bolt heads flush or covered to avoid trip hazards, and allow drainage so water does not pool around anchors. If furniture must be moved for cleaning, events, or winter storage, choose removable anchoring systems rather than permanent fixings. Also check local regulations and accessibility requirements before drilling into paving or decks.
In short, urban outdoor furniture can absolutely be bolted down so it does not blow away, but it should be specified and installed carefully. A professional should assess wind load, surface strength, and furniture design, and the anchors should be inspected regularly. Bolting is not magic—it is a practical engineering decision that works best when the whole setup is designed for wind.