Walt Disney World Resort continues to move towards the old “normal.” Walt Disney World has updated its face covering policy. The new policy says that face masks are no longer required outdoors. The new policy says that “face coverings are optional in outdoor common areas at Walt Disney World Resort, but are still required upon entering and throughout all attractions, theaters and transportation.”
This updated policy comes as Walt Disney World Resort increases capacity and also modifies physical distancing guidelines. Walt Disney World has continued to operate under modified protocols as part of its phased reopening after being closed due to the pandemic last year. Yesterday, Disney CEO Bob Chapek said that capacity would be increasing and face mask policies would be updated soon during an earnings call.
Here is the official face covering policy for the Walt Disney World Resort:
Face Coverings Policy for Walt Disney World Resort
Face coverings are required for all Guests (ages 2 and up) and Cast Members. Please bring your own face coverings and wear them in all indoor locations, except when actively eating or drinking while stationary and maintaining appropriate physical distancing. Face coverings are optional in outdoor common areas at Walt Disney World Resort, but are still required upon entering and throughout all attractions, theaters and transportation.
All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) must:
- Be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material
- Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
At this time, based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings.
Costume masks are also not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with our existing rules.
Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings must:
- Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
- Meet all face covering requirements listed above
The use of face coverings is not a substitute for physical distancing.
Face Coverings Throughout Walt Disney World Resort
| Face Coverings Required | Face Coverings Optional | |
|---|---|---|
| Upon entering and throughout all attractions | ✓ | |
| All theaters, including theater entrances | ✓ | |
| All transportation, including transportation entrances | ✓ | |
| All indoor locations, including restaurants, except when actively eating or drinking while stationary | ✓ | |
| Outdoor common areas | ✓ | |
| Pool decks | ✓ |
Please note, face coverings are not permitted while experiencing water slides or in the water.
Walt Disney World’s updated face mask policy comes shortly after Universal Studios Orlando announced its own updated face covering policy. What do you think of Walt Disney World Resort’s updated face covering policy? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
