Ever since reopening Disney World has had a mandatory mask requirement when on property. The only exception was in mask relaxation zones and while eat and drinking (while stationary). In early April we saw the first ease up on mask rules when they announced they would allow you to take pictures outside without wearing a mask.
Now the rules are seeing a big change with masks no longer required in most outdoor settings. This rule change comes on the heels of Orange County (the county that most of Walt Disney World is in) dropping into its phase 2 reopening plan. The county reached its 50% Covid vaccination threshold so masks are no longer required in outdoor settings but continue to be required indoors. This announcement is also coming shortly after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday that people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 do not need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors, except under certain circumstances.
Where you Don't Need to Wear a Mask at Disney World
| 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.
When Will Masks No Longer Be Required?
Walt Disney World so far has been following hand in hand with CDC and Orange County Guidelines. The next phase, phase 3, is triggered by a 70% vaccination rate or 5% test positivity rate. At current, it's expected that the county will first reach the test positivity threshold before the vaccination goal. Once the county enters phase three all mandates will be lifted.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
