Leave it at Home! Know What’s Banned at Disney

A recent video of guests splashing around in the fountain at EPCOT’s France Pavilion sparked quite a conversation in the Disney community. While most visitors understand the dos and don’ts of a Disney vacation, it’s always good to have a refresher on the rules and restrictions that ensure everyone has a safe, enjoyable, and magical experience at Walt Disney World.

From costume guidelines to banned items, knowing what’s allowed (and what’s not) can make your trip smoother and keep the magic alive for everyone around you. Let’s dive into the key rules you need to be aware of when visiting Disney World.

Costume Restrictions: Dressing the Part, But Not Overdoing It

Seeing little ones dressed as their favorite Disney princesses or superheroes is a common and heartwarming sight in the parks. Adults, however, have stricter guidelines when it comes to dressing up. If you’re 14 years or older, you’re not allowed to wear costumes that resemble Disney characters during regular park hours. This rule is in place to prevent any confusion between guests and official Disney Cast Members.

Exceptions to the Rule: Adults can dress up during special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or runDisney events, where everyone is encouraged to join in the fun. Just remember, even during these events, your costume shouldn’t interfere with park operations or the guest experience. For example, you’re not allowed to sign autographs, pose for pictures, or perform any actions that could make other guests mistake you for an official Disney character.

Why It Matters: This rule helps maintain the magic for everyone, ensuring that the only people who are interacting with guests as Disney characters are the trained professionals who do it best.

Inappropriate Clothing: Keeping It Family-Friendly

Walt Disney World is a family-friendly destination, and the park’s dress code reflects that. Disney reserves the right to deny entry or remove anyone wearing attire that is deemed inappropriate or disruptive to the guest experience. This includes clothing with offensive language or graphics, outfits that drag on the ground, and visible tattoos that contain objectionable material.

Modesty is Key: When planning your park outfits, remember that you’ll be around families with children all day. Ensuring your clothing is comfortable, practical, and respectful of others is essential. Keep in mind that you’ll be getting on and off rides throughout the day, so make sure everything that should be covered stays covered.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether your outfit is appropriate, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Disney’s goal is to create a welcoming environment for all guests, and that starts with ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe.

The Ban on Selfie Sticks: Safety First

When selfie sticks first became popular, they were a hit, with Disney guests eager to capture the perfect shot. However, it didn’t take long for safety issues to arise. Selfie sticks can be distracting and dangerous, especially on rides and in crowded areas. As a result, Disney banned selfie sticks, hand-held camera extension poles, and any other similar devices from all theme parks and water parks.

Why the Ban? The primary concern is guest safety. These devices can interfere with ride operations and pose a hazard to both the user and those around them. To prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety, it’s best to leave the selfie stick at home.

Alternative Options: If you’re looking to capture memories, consider using a regular camera or smartphone and taking advantage of the numerous PhotoPass photographers stationed throughout the parks. They’ll help you get that perfect shot without the risk.

Strollers and Wagons: Navigating the Parks with Ease

Disney is a popular destination for families with young children, making strollers a must-have for many guests. However, to keep the parks safe and accessible for everyone, Disney has specific guidelines regarding strollers and wagons.

Stroller Size Matters: Personal strollers must be smaller than 31 inches in width and 52 inches in length to be allowed in the parks. If you’re bringing your own stroller, double-check the dimensions before you leave home.

No Wagons Allowed: While wagons might seem like a convenient way to transport kids and gear, they’re not allowed in any of the Disney parks. Wagons can cause congestion and make it difficult for other guests to navigate the busy walkways.

Prohibited Items: Additionally, any trailer-like objects that are pushed, pulled, or towed by an Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV), wheelchair, stroller, or person are not permitted. Disney’s goal is to ensure that everyone can move around the parks comfortably and safely.

Special Rules for Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Protecting the Animals

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is unique in that it’s home to a wide variety of animals, and with that comes specific rules to ensure their safety. Two key restrictions apply specifically to this park:

No Plastic Straws: Plastic straws are not allowed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This rule helps protect the animals from ingesting harmful plastics.

No Balloons: Balloons are also banned from these areas for similar reasons. If you have a balloon with you when visiting Animal Kingdom, you can drop it off at Guest Services, where it will be kept safe until you’re ready to leave.

Why It Matters: These rules are in place to maintain a safe environment for the animals that call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home. By following them, you’re helping to protect the incredible wildlife that makes this park so special.

Other Banned Items and Rules: Ensuring a Safe and Enjoyable Experience

In addition to the restrictions mentioned above, there are several other items and behaviors that are prohibited at Walt Disney World to ensure a safe and magical experience for everyone:

No Folding Chairs: Folding chairs are not allowed in the parks, so don’t plan on setting up camp to wait for the fireworks.

No Glass Containers: Glass containers are prohibited in parks for safety reasons.

No Protest Signs: Disney is all about positivity and fun, so protest signs and demonstrations are not allowed on the property.

No Hanging Towels from Balconies: While it might be tempting to dry your beach towel on your hotel balcony, it’s against the rules.

No Marijuana: Even if it’s legal where you live, marijuana is not permitted on Disney property.

No Feeding the Birds: As tempting as it might be to share a snack with a feathered friend, feeding the birds is not allowed.

Why These Rules Exist: Each of these rules is in place to protect guests, Cast Members, and the overall atmosphere of the parks. By adhering to them, you’re helping to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit.

Planning Ahead: Tips for a Magical Visit

Before heading to Walt Disney World, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the park rules and restrictions. Knowing what to expect will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that your visit is smooth and stress-free.

Do Your Research: Disney’s official website is a great resource for up-to-date information on park rules, prohibited items, and anything else you need to know before your visit.

Pack Smart: As you pack for your trip, keep Disney’s rules in mind. Leave any prohibited items at home and make sure your outfits are appropriate for a family-friendly environment.

Enjoy the Magic: With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the magic that Walt Disney World has to offer. Remember, these rules are in place to protect the experience for everyone, ensuring that your visit is as magical as possible.

Ready for Your Disney Adventure? By following these guidelines, you’re set for a safe, enjoyable, and truly magical experience at Walt Disney World.