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4 Controversial Rules Disney Is Enforcing in 2026

Charlie

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When visiting Disney theme parks, there are many rules – – both official and unofficial – – that guests have to follow.


Disney Springs transportation rules


That’s especially true this summer, as Disney is enforcing some new (and old) rules at both Disney World and Disneyland.



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Resort Hopping from Disney Springs Just Got Harder​


The days of parking at Disney Springs for free and then park hopping to Disney World hotels look to be over. Beginning on June 28th, guests will have to show a hotel or dining reservation in order to be granted access to the buses or boats leaving Disney Springs. This rule has been enacted before during busy times of year, but now it is becoming permanent.

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Disney Springs Transportation Rule


Disney has not shared the official reason for this rule change, although we can guess that it is because too many non-resort guests were using the buses to get around to Disney’s hotels, and it was making the wait too long for the guests paying to stay at these hotels.


Disney Springs Boats

Pin Trading Clampdown​


Pin trading has been a mega-popular hobby amongst Disney fans at both Disney World and Disneyland for over 25 years.


Showing off our pins


However, Anaheim pin traders be warned, the “Happiest Place on Earth” is enforcing some new (and old) rules this year, including:

  • Pins are not allowed to be set up and displayed on benches, chairs, tables, and other surfaces. So, groups who would previously gather around certain areas and almost set up a “pin trading pop-up” will need to operate in a more free-flowing manner.
  • In addition, Disney is clamping down on guests’ elaborate pin displays, with the rule stating, “Lanyards and small handheld pin trading accessories are allowed, subject to the Disneyland Resort rules, but no additional decorations or collateral (e.g., lights, signage, displays, etc.) are permitted.”
  • Finally, the company also clarified the longstanding rule that guests can only trade a maximum of two pins per Cast Member or trading board per day, and it’s a one pin for one pin trading system. In other words, if you’re trading with a Cast Member or board, even if your pin is worth more, you cannot get two in exchange.

Pin Board

What Is Pin Trading In Disney World And Why Is EVERYONE Talking About It?​

A BIG Change at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad​


The legendary Big Thunder Mountain Railroad returned to the Magic Kingdom in early May after a refurbishment that lasted well over a year. The legendary E-ticket attraction features updated tracks and trains that is still the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” while improving the ride experience. These changes, along with a comprehensive assessment from the safety teams, have even allowed Disney to LOWER the ride’s height requirement from 40 inches to 38 inches. Those two inches might sound small, but they can make a BIG difference in determining if a younger guest can ride this newly refurbished attraction.


Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

A Warning to Parents Looking for Bluey​


As of May, Animal Kingdom’s Conservation Station is now home to Bluey’s Wild World, where guests can play and dance with Bluey and Bingo! Guests will be able to play some of their favorite games from the beloved show, like the popular keepy uppy, take some pictures with the Blue Heeler sisters, and have a hands-on experience with animals native to their home country, Australia! However, guests should also note that the only way to access the Conservation Station is via the Wildlife Express Train, which only allows foldable strollers onboard. Therefore, you’ll need to either fold their stroller or park it at the station in Africa, take the train to Conversation Station, watch the show, and pick up your stroller upon your return.


Bluey’s Wild World


If you’re heading to either Disney World or Disneyland over the rest of 2026, be aware that Disney is enforcing some new (and old) rules. Stay tuned to Magical Guides for more Disney tips.



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Will these rules affect your next Disney trip? Let us know in the comments below.
 
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