A recent video of guests splashing in the fountain at EPCOT’s France Pavilion sparked conversations across the Disney community. While most visitors are familiar with the general dos and don’ts of a Disney vacation, it’s always helpful to refresh your knowledge of the rules and restrictions that ensure Walt Disney World remains safe, enjoyable, and magical for everyone.
From costume guidelines to prohibited items, understanding what’s allowed at Walt Disney World can enhance your trip and help you avoid unexpected surprises. Let’s explore the essential rules every Disney guest should know.
Costume Guidelines: Magical Dressing for All Ages
Seeing children dressed as their favorite Disney princesses or characters is part of the magic of Disney. However, adults (14 years and older) have specific costume guidelines to ensure no confusion arises between guests and official Disney Cast Members.
Rules for Adults:
Costumes that resemble Disney characters are not permitted during regular park hours for guests aged 14 and up. The exceptions are special events such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or runDisney races, where everyone is encouraged to dress up. However, even at these events, costumes must not interfere with park operations or the guest experience—this includes not signing autographs, taking posed photos, or otherwise portraying official characters.
Why It Matters:
These rules help preserve the Disney magic by ensuring only trained Cast Members interact with guests as characters.
Dress Code: Keeping It Family-Friendly
Disney is a family-oriented destination, and its dress code reflects this. Guests are expected to wear appropriate attire, and Disney reserves the right to deny entry to anyone whose clothing is deemed disruptive or offensive.
Key Restrictions:
- No clothing with offensive language, imagery, or graphics.
- No outfits that drag on the ground, as these can pose tripping hazards.
- Visible tattoos with objectionable content must be covered.
Pro Tip:
Choose comfortable, practical outfits that allow you to enjoy rides and attractions without worry. If in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
The Selfie Stick Ban: Keeping Safety in Focus
Selfie sticks were once a popular accessory at Disney, but they’ve since been banned due to safety concerns. These devices can interfere with ride operations and pose hazards in crowded areas.
Alternatives:
To capture magical moments, consider using a smartphone or camera. Disney’s PhotoPass photographers are also stationed throughout the parks and can help you get the perfect shot.
Why It Matters:
The ban ensures the safety of all guests while keeping operations running smoothly.
Stroller and Wagon Restrictions: Navigating the Parks Safely
For families visiting with young children, strollers are essential. However, Disney has guidelines to ensure strollers don’t contribute to congestion or safety issues.
Stroller Rules:
- Strollers must not exceed 31 inches in width and 52 inches in length.
- Wagons and wagon-style strollers are not permitted in any Disney park.
- Trailer-like objects (pulled by wheelchairs, strollers, or ECVs) are also prohibited.
By following these rules, you’ll ensure your stroller setup is park-friendly.
Unique Rules at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
As a park that’s home to a wide variety of animals, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has specific rules to ensure the safety of its wildlife.
Banned Items:
- Plastic Straws: Not allowed to prevent harm to animals.
- Balloons: Prohibited to avoid accidental ingestion by wildlife.
What to Do:
If you’re carrying a balloon, Disney offers complimentary storage at Guest Services while you visit Animal Kingdom.
Other Prohibited Items to Remember
Disney maintains an extensive list of prohibited items to ensure the parks remain safe and magical. Here are some commonly overlooked rules:
- No Folding Chairs: These are not permitted in the parks, even for events like parades or fireworks.
- No Glass Containers: For safety reasons, glass containers are strictly banned.
- No Protest Signs or Demonstrations: Disney promotes positivity and doesn’t allow protests or demonstrations on its property.
- No Hanging Towels from Balconies: While tempting, it’s against resort rules to hang towels on balcony railings.
- No Marijuana: Even where legal, marijuana is prohibited on Disney property.
- No Feeding the Birds: Feeding wildlife, including birds, is not allowed to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
Why These Rules Exist:
Each of these restrictions helps protect guests, Cast Members, and the overall atmosphere of the parks.
Dining and Transportation Tips for Stormy Days
Rain and thunderstorms are common in Florida, especially during the summer months. Here are tips to ensure weather doesn’t disrupt your plans:
- Dining: When storms roll in, quick-service and full-service restaurants fill up fast. Make advanced dining reservations early and seek indoor dining options before the rain starts.
- Transportation: During storms, certain modes of transportation, like the Skyliner and Monorail, may temporarily stop for safety. Have alternative plans in place, like bus routes or walking paths.
Planning Ahead: Tips for a Magical Visit
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth Disney vacation. Here’s how to plan ahead:
- Research: Visit Disney’s official website for the most up-to-date park rules and prohibited items.
- Pack Smart: Leave restricted items at home and bring essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and rain ponchos.
- Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with park guidelines to avoid any surprises.
Enjoy the Magic, Follow the Rules
By understanding and respecting Disney’s rules and restrictions, you’ll help maintain the magic for everyone. Whether it’s adhering to costume guidelines, abiding by the selfie stick ban, or respecting wildlife at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, these rules exist to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all.
So, pack your bags, plan your outfits, and get ready to make magical memories at Walt Disney World—while following the rules that keep the magic alive!
