Walt Disney World and the Orange County Sheriff want to remind guests that while there is a change in how Florida will approach the “open carry” of firearms, there is no change to the complete weapons ban at the theme parks. Here’s what guests need to know.
Weapons Ban at Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Recently, the Florida Attorney General declared that “open carry” is the “law of the state”. Attorney General James Uthmeier sent a guidance memo earlier this week to law enforcement agencies, noting that a recent District Court of Appeals ruling called a ban on the open carry of firearms unconstitutional.
In the memo, Uthmeier noted that “the Court’s decision neither considered nor implicated Florida’s law listing certain locations where the carrying of firearms – open or concealed – may be unauthorized”. Uthmeier went on to say that “the same holds true for private property owners, who maintain long-standing legal prerogative to compel individuals carrying firearms to leave their premises”.
In short, the decision doesn’t impact the ban on weapons at Walt Disney World theme parks. In a new statement to Florida Politics, Disney underlines that fact.
Guests are not permitted to have firearms, ammunition, knives or weapons of any kind at Walt Disney World Resort. All Guests are expected to comply with Walt Disney World Resort Property Rules.
Guests who bring firearms or weapons of any kind to Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs, water parks, or anywhere on property face the risk of being trespassed.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina released a video-recorded message about the open carry change, noting that “private property owners can still prohibit anyone from carrying firearms onto their properties, and trespass anyone who violates that rule. That includes any private residents or business, or places like shopping malls, hotels, and theme parks.”
The Walt Disney World website outlines the following rules as it relates to firearms or weapons.
All persons, bags, parcels, clothing and other items may be subject to screening/security checks.
We reserve the right not to allow any bag, parcel or other item and to deal with any unattended object, bag or luggage in such way as we consider appropriate.
Firearms, ammunition, knives and weapons of any kind are prohibited.
Walt Disney World utilizes a number of visible and invisible security measures to ensure that everyone visiting has a safe and enjoyable experience.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!
