[villagetinker]

OP,

Assuming that you have confirmed there is nothing illegal about removing this protective post, you could try the following:

1. Buy some rust buster, possibly automotive supply stores or big box stores. Apply this to all four bolts, tap with a ball peen hammer and repeat application. Then let sit overnight. tap with ball peen hammer again. Then try loosening the bolts. I have used this product in the past on cars with good success.

2. If #1 does not work, apply more rust buster, then borrow an impact hammer, either air or electric. Make sure it is set to loosen, and try that.

3. If now of the above work, look at the top of the bolts and see how many lines are on the bolts, if there are no lines or 3 lines, then you can drill out the bolts. If you have 5 or more line then you have hardened bolts and you will require COBALT bits to drill these out ($$$). Start with an 1/8" metal drill and lubricant and drill about 1/2" to 5/8" pilot hole. Follow up with a 1/4" hole, and then with a 3/8" hole. I am guessing that will free up the head of the bolt. This will have minimal damage to the concrete, and you can continue drilling if you end up with stubs sticking out of the concrete.

4. Once the pole and bolt heads have been removed, you may be able to remove the bolts with and additional hole and an easyout. I actually have left hand drill bits specifically for this purpose.

Hope this helps.

If you want to discuss further, r if you need tools or help, send me a PM.