As the Walt Disney World theme parks welcome guests again, it’s only natural that there are questions GALORE!
Early Morning at Cinderella Castle
There are a LOT of new guidelines and policies to keep up with. Don’t worry if you’re still super confused, because we’ve got ya covered…literally!
Wearing a face covering is one of the BIGGEST adjustments guests have to make when visiting the reopened Disney World parks.
Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney
But before you go, you may be wondering: Who has to wear a face covering? When do you have to wear a face covering? What even IS a face covering?!
What you need to know before going BACK to Disney World!
Who has to wear a face covering?
A recent update confirmed that Cast Members and ALL guests ages TWO and up are required to wear a face covering while at the Walt Disney World Resort.
American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs
According to Disney, you need to bring your own face mask.
Click Here for the MOST and LEAST comfortable face coverings!
Where do you have to wear a face mask?
We already know you need to wear a face mask while visiting Disney Springs, and you’ll have to wear them all around the theme parks. Additionally, hotel guests have to wear face masks while in common areas of the resort, according to a Disney rep.
Disney will require guests to wear face masks unless eating or swimming while at a resort hotel
As previously reported, you do NOT have to wear your face covering when dining and swimming! Note that when dining outside of a table-service restaurant, guests must be stationary and physically distanced to remove their masks to eat. Guests also will not be required to wear a mask while in their own rooms.
Luna Park Pool
There are Relaxation Stations around the parks for guest use.
Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs
These are spots “in and around and off the property” where folks can remove their face coverings for a while and breathe in that fresh Florida air. Universal Studios introduced similar locations when they reopened, called URest areas.
You need to know these TIPS for wearing a face covering at Walt Disney World!
What counts as a face covering?
That’s two big questions out of the way! But you might still be wondering… what counts as a face covering at Disney World?
Cast Member with required face mask
The CDC has great information regarding face coverings! But since we’re here for Disney World, it’s important to note that the Disney World website currently states the following in regard to face coverings. They must:
- Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable
© Amazon
Disney’s policy specifically excludes gaiters and bandanas.
When it comes to religious coverings, the most important thing to note is that your face and nose MUST be covered and your covering should fit snugly against the side of your face. If you are unsure whether or not your religious covering will be approved as a face mask, it’s best to bring an alternative with you JUST IN CASE! And it’s important to note that Disney can change its face covering policy at any time!
Face Masks at American Threads
One quick note here to remember is that the rules regarding costumes and masks still apply! Sorry to those who thought they would be able to get away wearing their Darth Vader masks as face coverings! Costume helmets/masks, ski masks, or anything else that covers the entire face (excluding religious coverings) are also BIG no-nos at Walt Disney World.
Disney Springs Planet Hollywood Server
While it’s been reported that Disney Springs has a very limited amount of disposable masks for those who show up without one, it’s SUPER important to note that you shouldn’t rely on them! Definitely bring your own!
See ALL of Disney World’s new health measures and safety signage here!
What will happen if you refuse to wear a face covering?
Face coverings are be required…but what will happen if you refuse to wear one? With increased security and social distancing squads on the lookout for face coverings, it’s HIGHLY likely that those without proper face coverings or those disobeying the guidelines will be quickly addressed! So be sure to cover up!
Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs
In compliance with Osceola County law, you are required to wear face masks at Disney World. Don’t let that get you down, though! Use your mask as just another Disney accessory! If you’re stuck picking a fun mask and need a little inspiration, check out these ADORABLE face coverings!
Check on the newest updates regarding the park closure and reopening!
Disney Park Reopening Details and Info
Click HERE for the All Latest Updates
Click HERE To See FULL LISTS of the Rides, Attractions, Shopping, Entertainment, and Restaurants Opening in Disney World!
TUTORIAL: How To Use Disney World's NEW Park Pass Reservation System
ALL Disney World Reopening Procedures
Disney World Hotel and Ticket Booking Information
We’re Visiting ALL the Reopened Disney World Hotels and Have All the Need-to-Know Details
We’re LIVE in Disney World's Magic Kingdom For the FIRST Time Since the Closures
We’re LIVE in Disney’s Animal Kingdom For the FIRST Time Since the Closures
We Got a FIRST LOOK at Disney World’s New Character Cavalcades and Entertainment!
Everything You NEED To Know About Wearing Masks in Disney World
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Are there other questions you have about face masks in Disney World? Let us know!
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Thanks for looking into the face shield question! These seem like they would allow for better breathability/ air circulation, so we may give it a try on our upcoming trip. On the other hand, my mom just brought me a bunch of cute Vera Bradley masks yesterday…
Shayne and others who’ve asked, we got mixed messages from Disney about the face shields. One cast member said they were fine; another said you’d also need a mask underneath the shield. We’ll keep asking and report if there’s a consensus.
Staying far away from WDW with these ridiculous mask requirements. What kind of Disney experience is that? No thanks.
I’ve heard mixed experiences with people showing up to Disney Springs with bandanas. Might want to check into that one too. Not something I personally would use, but I know a lot of people have chosen this option.
If the rules state it needs to be secured with ties or war loops, that would lead me to believe that buffs and over neck-covering style masks would not work, no?
Jay, we specifically asked about this, and Disney cast members said as long as they cover the nose and mouth, they’re acceptable.
Melissa, we specifically asked about bandanas, and we were told as long as they cover the mouth and nose, they’re acceptable. We have also seen a lot of bandana face coverings on folks in the Springs.
Will Mickey be wearing a mask in photos?
I’m waiting until next September with healthy the mask require AM it will be gone.
We went to Disney Springs this week and there were many people wearing their masks down around their neck or just covering their mouths. It did happen to be one of those very hot days. There didn’t appear to be any cast members trying to correct this. If they are not correcting people here,they’ll never do it in the parks! I cancelled our AP.
If the state and counties lift the facemask requirement do you think Disney World will follow suit?
Michelle, we really won’t know unless Disney releases information. But we will be watching and reporting!
I heard that its because in Osceola county masks are mandatory in Orange county they are recommended. Because parts of WDW is in Osceola county they have mandated the masks in all parks. If Osceola County changes to recommended instead of required I believe WDW will do the same. Has anyone else found any information on this? We live in Ohio where masks are not mandatory so I just try and read what I can on FL. But then I also heard that it is the union demanding the masks to keep cast members safe.
We definitely will NOT be returning to FL until this sham show is over. 🤦🏼♂️
When on vacation I want to see my family smile. Can’t do that wearing a mask. Mask completely ruin the Disney experience. Already cancelled one Disney trip. Absolutely won’t return to Disney until the silly mask requirement is gone.
Why even require masks if their will be areas where people can gather to “rest their faces and breath fresh Florida air” ? This is so dumb.
Have their been any statements on medical conditions that prohibit wearing anything over the nose and mouth? Are people covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act going to be singled out and not allowed to visit the parks?
Those who complain about the masks, calling them ridiculous, don’t go to the parks, and don’t complain about them. My brother spent 66 days in the hospital fighting for his life. He’s a relatively healthy non smoker, no drugs, rarely drinks, 34 year old that has no underlying conditions. Masks have become a way of life mor my family. I am happy Disney, as well as other amusement parks, are taking the precautions needed to not only protect the guests, but their cast members as well. Remember the mask isn’t to protect you, it’s to protect others.
I specifically called to ask about face shields because of my autism. We were told by both the cast member who initially answered and a supervisor that face shields are not acceptable. The guidelines specify the cloth face coverings and that they fit around the side of the face. Face shields do not fit those requirements, so they are not permitted. She also said because it is a public health issue, there are no plans right now to have different guidelines for those with special needs since everyone has just as much chance of being a carrier.
As much as I would have liked to use a shield rather than a mask, it’s not going to stop me from going. And NO, they are not discriminating against me or anyone else with a special need because they won’t make special circumstances. In fact, if they did make these concessions, they would be discriminating against those without those needs. This is a pandemic. Situations are not normal. The reality is, there are not always accommodations, and that’s fine. Just like people without special needs, if you can’t comply with the rules, don’t go. That might sound harsh, but it’s the truth. I have to make the choice between coping with the mask (not just wearing it, but seeing other people in them, which is very disruptive) or not going to Disney World. That is my situation and I am choosing to cope. Some might not be able to cope, but that isn’t the fault of anyone and other people should not have to be further at risk or held to other standards because of it.
Fran, I am with you on this. The concept of wearing a mask isn’t hard to grasp. While different parts of the world are taking different approaches to masks being mandatory or not, it is clear that the theme parks are making it mandatory.
Those who are not wearing them properly, or even wearing a piece of lace, seen on opening day at Disney Springs, should be asked to fix their mask or leave. It’s sad to see the lack of care from people, the mess of Sea World’s reopening with a major lack of social distancing being practiced in queues is an example.
Putting it simply, this is the way the world works right now. If you can’t deal with that, stay at home.
It is really a shame those too foolish to care for themselves or others, and those who want to fight for their ‘freedoms’ by disregarding the rules, are making it hard for everyone else.
I want to be in the parks with people like you, Fran. Anyone who thinks they have a ‘right’ to be in the parks, check your privilege.
I wish these folks who say they will refuse to wear a mask in WDW have the courage to say where they are from — living in Southern NJ, where we’re closer to Philadelphia than NYC, are subject to the same restrictions as those in the North Jersey region, which is about 30 minutes outside New York City. There’s a reason why NY, NJ, and most of the New England States have coronavirus rates dropping while the rest of the country has their rates skyrocketing. Still not convinced that a mask helps you? Find an ER Nurse or Doctor on YouTube or other resource to show you what the coronavirus does to your major organs as this ISN’T like the flu virus at all! I’m so tired of hearing people complain about wearing a mask. Get over it! Sorry for my rant but there’s too many selfish people who are doing stupid things and you see the spike in infections in certain parts of the country because of it. We’ll be in Orlando in the fall — mask or no mask — making our OWN MAGIC! That’s what vacations are for in case you forgot! Thank you again DFB for all the updates as we get through this pandemic.
I spoke with several CM’s via e-mail and CHAT. All stated face Shields are not an approved covering. However, when I have done thi in the past for information ALL the CM’s were not correct. Thus, always good if visiting to bring a standard face covering and your shield if you wish to err on the “safe” side …
Michelle, there is no state requirement to wear a face mask in public. Just a recommendation when unable to social distance. Orange County did make their own requirement as did Miami.
Sue, that sounds like a safe approach.
Steve, you’re very welcome. Take care.
Phil, sending healing thoughts for your brother.
Jason, cast members thus far have told us “no exceptions.”
I have close friends that work in respiratory medicine. They all say that wearing a mask, if you’re healthy, is dangerous. This is because you’re breathing in expelled carbon dioxide. The masks also limits the oxygen getting to vital organs, which include your heart and brain. There has been people wearing mask and doing moderate exercise that have died as a result of not getting enough oxygen and CPR not being administered in a timely manner. I know, many of you will say “moderate exercise” while wearing a mask is why they died. Well, I know I don’t have to mention all the walking required at Disney resorts or theme parks. These are just my thoughts and the advise of some professionals in the field of respiratory medicine. Wearing masks just doesn’t make sense to me.
When Disney Springs first opened, we went for lunch. When exiting and very near to the garage, I pulled the mask down because as a senior with a heart issue. combined with the heat, I started to have shortness of breath and my my heart was racing. He started yelling at me and when I tried to explain, he kept talking over me. I was really surprised because it was so un Disney like. I wish I had gotten his name, as he should have been reported. You know, Barney Fife security guard with an attitude.
Steve S in NJ.. I live in Nebraska and our numbers are low and dropping. Many people did not wear masks when they went out and since the restrictions have eased up, very few still wear masks when they go out. Around here, it looks like things are almost back to “normal.” Like I said, our numbers were small, especially if you compare it to something like flu season and a big chunk of those infected were from a meat packing plant.
Thanks to all who offered clarification on the face shield issue. I think it’s likely we will wear masks just to be on the safe side in terms of ensuring compliance. It will be hot but we already live in a hot, humid climate, so we have some ability to acclimate ourselves ahead of our trip.
Good luck, Shayne! If we hear of any official changes, we will update.
I was at Disney Springs yesterday (Friday the 19th) and was told both at the garage screening and at the Welcome Center that face shields would have to have masks under them, which of course makes the shields pointless.
Poor Gail, thanks for sharing. We have gotten mixed messages on this, unfortunately.
The new Orange County mask requirement specifically allows me to NOT wear a mask. Would be nice if Disney abided by the county order.
I’m NOT looking forward to wearing a mask in over 100 degree heat, but I’m dying to go… I’m sure you can pop of the mask for a few seconds… or on the ride.. I’m wishing for the best.
Jessica, if you’re seated for dining or in a Relaxation Zone, you can remove your mask.
Hi everyone! Face shields and bandannas are not acceptable at Disney for face covering. Face coverings have to cover your nose and fit snuggly under your chin. Also all guests must wear face covering that are 2 and over. There are no exceptions, unless your drinking, eating, swimming or in your hotel room. I know this may be difficult for some guests due to their personal needs but their are no exceptions. If you or a family member have difficulty Wearing a mask I would consider another time to visit the magic. Disney wants you, fellow guest and cast members to be safe.
I cannot find an actual answer anywhere – does any one know if masks are required while jogging on the jogging paths? The thought of running while wearing a mask is quite unpleasant.
Miriya, we can try to find out. Let me see if anyone knows at present.
Had togo to Kissimmee. Vacation paid for. No Disney. Universal and Sea World. We wear face shields Tolerated at parks but parks perfer everybody be sheep and wear mask. Mask for rides. Lines can be long do to social distance. Social distancing the rides with half the car empty. We should have skipped the parks. Price even with deals not worth it. Universal had employees monitoring the streets for face mask breakers. Sanitizer overkill through the park.
No night life. Most places close around 8pm. Restaurants close early. Beach or Pool is the best way to go. Wait to this is over or endure.
Coming in late to the party here, but what about the masks that have the plastic window in the middle of the fabric? The so called “see through” masks. Are those allowed or do they fall under the face shield rule?
Hi, Kevin. We asked a Cast Member for you, and he said that he believes those masks ARE allowed but to bring others just in case.