Disney theme parks are constantly evolving, with new rules and policies introduced to keep up with changing times. The latest changes focus on addressing issues of guest abuse within one Disney park, as reports surface of visitors exploiting systems meant to serve those with genuine needs.
Next year marks the 70th anniversary of Disney’s theme park empire, a milestone shaped by significant transformations over the decades. Gone are the days of $1 entry—in fact, by 2025, a single-day ticket to Disney World will cost as much as $199. Meanwhile, rides have evolved far beyond the simple attractions of 1955, offering guests more immersive and high-tech experiences than ever before.
As Disney adjusts to modern demands, it’s implemented a variety of new rules over the years. Some, like the temporary mask and social distancing mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic, were short-lived. Others, such as the permanent ban on selfie sticks at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, reflect ongoing efforts to maintain the parks’ magic while balancing practicality and safety.
Entry Rule Change Introduced at Disney Park
A major update comes in response to reports of electric wheelchair rentals being misused by guests at one of Disney’s theme parks. Young visitors were renting electric wheelchairs “as a means of transportation in the park, driving around with laughter, and even playing ‘bumper cars.'”
The issue was highlighted by the Yangtse Evening Post, which found that local businesses near the park were providing electric wheelchair rentals with “inspection forms” that allowed guests to bypass entry checks.
The Shanghai Disneyland website clearly states that electric wheelchairs are “to be used only for the purposes of carrying guests with assisted mobility needs due to disability, advanced age, or relevant medical conditions.” However, the widespread abuse of these rentals caused disruptions for other guests.
One visitor shared their frustration, saying, “I originally brought my children to Disneyland to enjoy a happy parent-child time, but I didn’t expect these electric wheelchairs to disrupt my plan.” Another visitor complained, “Yesterday I was in a hurry to go to the toilet, jogging all the way, and when I turned at the back door of Sweetheart, several electric wheelchairs rushed out and blocked the road!”
As a result, the park has introduced a new policy, set to take effect on December 10.
According to Shanghai Hotline, moving forward, only guests who require electric wheelchairs due to limited mobility—such as those with disabilities, elderly guests, or individuals with certain health conditions—will be allowed to bring them into the park. Guests must register their electric wheelchair rental in advance through the park’s Reservation Center. Once inside, electric wheelchairs will have a speed limit of 6 km/h and guests must travel at walking speed.
Other New Entry Rules
These updates are not the only changes coming to the Disney park. Starting December 23, all guests will be required to use a government-issued ID to book their tickets, which must match the name on the ID presented at entry.
This change is being implemented to combat the growing issue of ticket scalpers. Each ID can only be used to purchase one ticket, ensuring a more secure and controlled entry process.
Additionally, children’s tickets will now be sold based on age rather than height. Previously, children under three years old—or those shorter than one meter—were granted free admission, and children between the ages of three and eleven, or between one meter and 1.4 meters tall, received a 25% discount.
Under the new policy, children under three will continue to get free access, but those between the ages of three and eleven will receive child tickets based on age, priced lower than adult tickets.
What other rule changes do you think Disney should make?
