Disneyland’s whimsical gates come with rules and magic. Since Walt Disney first opened the park, every element of the visit has been choreographed to create a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. A side of that choreography is a vigilant list of forbidden items and behaviors. Seasonal updates, new technology, and recent events mean the prohibited list evolves constantly. Security checkpoints at entry turnstiles enforce all these rules, inspecting every bag and stroller meticulously.
Disneyland’s leadership has always prioritized guest safety and a consistently positive experience. The park’s design and staffing presume an environment free of unexpected hazards or disruptions. Even seemingly harmless objects can become dangers or nuisances in a crowded park. The prohibited list is crafted to minimize risk and preserve the magic. Years ago, for example, anti-war protesters once descended on the park in 1970, prompting a stringent security response. Ever since, Disneyland’s policies have been very strict to ensure families feel safe. The rules are constantly reviewed so new concerns (like drones or vaping) are addressed without delay.
Entering Disneyland requires a brief but thorough screening. Guests line up at metal detectors, step through them, and place personal items on X-ray conveyors (much like at an airport). Cast Members will open bags and sometimes briefly inspect the contents. The process is fast and routine: a visitor typically spends only a few minutes at most. To prepare, keep tickets and keys handy and pack bags neatly. Any item that looks suspicious at a glance—such as a large flask of liquid, loose ice, or an oversized case—will draw attention. If you forgot something banned, you may be asked to dispose of it or take it back to your car. Otherwise, a polite inspection is all that stands between you and the magic inside.
Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida share the same core philosophy: nothing risking safety or family fun is allowed. That means no guns, knives, drugs, or oversized items at either resort. State laws do not change Disney’s restrictions. For example, Florida’s permitless carry law has no effect on Disney property – Walt Disney World (like Disneyland) still forbids all firearms. Likewise, California concealed-carry licenses do not override Disneyland’s ban. Other minor differences are local: Downtown Disney in Florida allows wine to go with dinner in its restaurants, whereas the Californian Downtown Disney has historically been more strict. Smoking rules align with local law: both California and Florida parks confine smoking to designated outdoor areas. But for most visitors, the Disneyland and Disney World “do-not-bring” lists feel nearly identical.
The key take-away: Don’t count on any outside law allowing something at Disney – if it’s on Disney property, Disney’s rulebook applies.
Think of this as a quick reference for what not to bring. The forbidden categories include Weapons, Drugs & Alcohol, Mobility Aids, Large Containers, and anything dangerous. Here’s the overview:
Use this list when packing. If an item is on it, leave it at home or in the car. The sections below explain each category in depth, but the short story is: dangerous, oversized, or surprising items are not welcome at Disneyland.
Disneyland’s rule on weapons is absolute: any object that can hurt someone is forbidden.
All guns and ammo are banned from Disneyland. This includes handguns, rifles, BB guns, stun guns, and even bullets. The park has zero tolerance. California’s gun laws (permit or not) do not matter inside Disney’s gates; it’s private property. Every guest walks through a metal detector, and any weapon or ammunition triggers an alarm. If someone brings a firearm, security will remove it and call law enforcement. In practice, guests are often simply denied entry if they present a gun or ammo. The upshot: keep all weapons locked away off-site.
Florida recently allowed permitless carry of concealed firearms, but Walt Disney World did not change its policy: guns are still banned. Likewise, Disneyland’s rules ignore California’s concealed-carry licenses. Disney’s stance is clear: state laws don’t authorize weapons on Disney property. Only sworn law enforcement officers may carry weapons in the parks.
No knives of any kind are permitted. This covers everything from kitchen knives and pocket knives to box cutters and scissors. Even a small multi-tool or fruit knife will be caught. Security scan every bag for sharp objects. The rule is simple: if it has a blade or sharp edge, it’s not allowed. For example, if a guest carries a Swiss Army knife, Disney will have them remove it before entry. The easiest tip for visitors: leave all knives at home or in the car.
No. Even the tiniest pocket knife is banned. Disneyland’s official list explicitly says no knives of any size. If security finds one, they will ask the guest to give it to them, toss it, or return it to their car. Many visitors now assume “any knife is forbidden” and simply avoid bringing them.
“Self-defense” devices are also out. Disneyland lumps pepper spray, mace, stun guns, Tasers, and similar items into the weapon category. For instance, if you carry bear spray for hiking, it will be treated the same as pepper spray and is not allowed in. The logic: any chemical or electrical device that can incapacitate someone is seen as a potential threat.
No. Pepper spray and similar items are explicitly prohibited. Security will almost certainly find it during the bag check. Guests who try to argue it’s just for personal safety are told firmly that Disney does not allow it. The common outcome is that you hand it over or go back to the car to retrieve it. The practical advice: assume any type of spray or stun device has no place inside Disneyland.
One might think “toy” means safe, but Disneyland’s rule covers realistic-looking toys too. Any object resembling a weapon is forbidden. This includes toy guns (even ones that shoot foam darts), toy swords, nerf blasters, or props that look like weapons. For example, a plastic pirate sword or a Nerf dart gun could cause a problem. One exception is Disney’s own branded toy weapons: Disneyland explicitly allows toy lightsabers and blasters sold inside the park. But anything that could be mistaken for a weapon by other guests or staff is a no-go.
Yes – if you bought it at Disneyland or Disney California Adventure. Disney says lightsabers, Star Wars droids, and similar toys sold in-park may be carried around. Guests just need to use them responsibly (keep them sheathed or stowed except when posing for a photo). The key is that the item must be clearly a Disney-licensed product. Any homemade or outside-brand toy sword would fall under the weapon ban. So bring your Galaxy’s Edge lightsaber with pride, but not your home-knitted Jedi sword.
Disneyland enforces a drug- and smoke-free environment inside the parks, regardless of local laws.
No form of marijuana is allowed. That means no smoking, no vaping, and no eating of any cannabis products – even if you have a California medical marijuana card. This also includes edibles, oils, and concentrates. Similarly, CBD products are banned if they could contain any THC. Disney’s policy follows federal law (where marijuana is illegal) and its own rules. Security will inspect any pouches, bottles, or packages that might contain marijuana. If officers find anything, you will be asked to discard it immediately. For example, a visitor with a gummy edible will be told to throw it away or step out of line until it’s gone.
No. Private property rules prevail. Even though California allows it, Disneyland forbids any marijuana product. Guests should not bring any to the park. If you attempt to enter with cannabis, Disney will require you to remove it (usually tossing it) before allowing entry. In one reported case, a guest with medical cannabis was not admitted until the cannabis was discarded. The clear message: do not test this rule.
Disneyland maintains a strict no-smoking policy inside both parks. Tobacco cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, vaporizers – none are allowed past the entrance. The only place you can smoke is in the marked smoking patios outside the parks (for example, just outside Disneyland Park’s main entrance and outside California Adventure). Inside Main Street or any other land, smoking or vaping will get you stopped by staff. Smoking a cigarette on a ride queue or in a restroom is not tolerated.
There are small designated smoking areas just outside each park’s gates (usually near the turnstiles). Disneyland provides maps showing these spots. After smoking, you must re-enter through the security checkpoint (though returning smokers often only get a quick pat-down instead of the full bag scan). The key point: inside the park beyond the gates, smoking is entirely banned.
No outside alcohol is permitted in Disneyland or Disney California Adventure. Guests may not carry any beer, wine, or liquor into the parks or Downtown Disney. If security spots any unopened beer bottles or wine, they will be confiscated on the spot and typically poured out. All alcoholic beverages you want must be purchased from Disney outlets inside the parks.
No. Even if you have a legal ID, you cannot carry personal alcohol inside Disneyland. If an opened or unopened bottle is found, the security staff will either have you pour it out or take it back to your car. The rule is non-negotiable at the gate: Disney will not allow outside booze in.
Disneyland Park itself offers alcohol at certain locations, like the Blue Bayou Restaurant (serving cocktails) and select quick-service carts with beer or wine. California Adventure has its own bars and lounges (for example, Carthay Circle Restaurant and the Lamplight Lounge). In Downtown Disney (outside the gates), many restaurants and bars serve drinks. The main takeaway: Disney sells alcohol for you, so there’s no need to sneak it in.
Disneyland’s policies on bags and coolers focus on size limits and safety.
Guests may bring bags and backpacks, but only up to 24″ long × 15″ wide × 18″ high. This applies to all suitcases, totes, diaper bags, and coolers. Even if a bag is empty, a large rolling suitcase will be measured and likely refused. Security often carries a folding gauge stick or knows the dimensions by eye, and will immediately flag anything oversized. If your bag exceeds the limit, Cast Members will give you options: return it to the car, store it in a locker, or send it to a hotel if you’re staying on Disney property.
Up to 24″×15″×18″. A standard carry-on suitcase or a typical large backpack is right at the limit. Smaller items like a lunch tote or a small daypack are fine. If traveling by air, consider checking large bags to your hotel or shipping them.
Coolers follow the same dimensional rule. Soft-sided picnic coolers or lunchbox coolers are permitted if they meet 24Ă—15Ă—18. Hard-sided ice chests are allowed only if they do not exceed those dimensions as well.
Yes – small coolers are permitted. Guests often use compact soft coolers to carry drinks and snacks. Make sure your cooler is within the size limit.
No. Loose ice cubes or even dry ice packs are not allowed. If you try to carry a bag with loose ice, security will have you discard it. Instead, freeze some water bottles or use gel ice packs that won’t leak. This rule prevents water damage and slipping hazards.
Glass containers of any kind (bottles, jars, etc.) are forbidden in the parks. The one exception is small glass baby food jars for infants, which Disneyland explicitly permits. Aside from that, any glass item (like a soda bottle or a glass condiment jar) will be taken away. The reason is safety: broken glass in a busy park would be very dangerous. Always use plastic or metal instead.
Yes. Disneyland understands parents need to bring baby food. Small glass jars of baby formula or purees are allowed. Otherwise, leave glass at home.
Full-size luggage and overnight suitcases are not allowed. You must not bring them into the park. If you fly to Anaheim and head straight to Disneyland, arrange to check your bags at a hotel or leave them in the car. Disneyland’s parking lot does not have a storage service. Many visitors store their bags with hotel bell services or use the locker rental at the park entrance.
Disneyland limits wheeled items so paths and emergency routes stay clear.
No stroller wider than 31 inches or longer than 52 inches is allowed. The park measures strollers exactly (31″×52″). Oversized double and triple strollers often exceed one of those dimensions. If security finds a stroller too large, they will ask you to collapse it or leave it behind. This size rule ensures strollers do not jam narrow queues or block pathways.
Any stroller up to 31″ wide and 52″ long. Most standard single strollers and smaller double strollers fit this. If yours is bigger (for example, an expanded jogging stroller), plan to use a Disneyland rental or leave it outside the gate. Disneyland rents strollers by the day if needed.
No stroller wider than 31 inches or longer than 52 inches is allowed. The park measures strollers exactly (31″×52″). Oversized double and triple strollers often exceed one of those dimensions. If security finds a stroller too large, they will ask you to collapse it or leave it behind. This size rule ensures strollers do not jam narrow queues or block pathways.
Any stroller up to 31″ wide and 52″ long. Most standard single strollers and smaller double strollers fit this. If yours is bigger (for example, an expanded jogging stroller), plan to use a Disneyland rental or leave it outside the gate. Disneyland rents strollers by the day if needed.
No skateboards, no non-Disney scooters, no rollerblades, no hoverboards, and no wheeled shoes (like Heelys) are allowed. These items can easily injure others or cause falls on uneven park surfaces. If you arrive with any of these, security will direct you to walk it in or lock it up outside. The only wheeled conveyances that are allowed are standard wheelchairs, approved electric mobility scooters, and strollers (as discussed).
No. If a guest arrives on a skateboard or non-motorized scooter, security will require them to carry it and enter on foot. Guests have been known to either roll their skateboards to their car or lock them outside.
No. Segways and hoverboards (self-balancing scooters) are specifically banned. The park had past incidents and recalls related to these, so Disney clearly disallows them.
No. Shoes with wheels (Heelys) are not permitted. Guests are usually asked to remove the wheels or lock the shoes in their bag. A common workaround is to wear regular sneakers into the park and switch to Heelys afterward.
Guests are encouraged to take pictures and videos, but some equipment is restricted for safety and security reasons.
Disneyland does not allow selfie sticks or any handheld extension poles for cameras and phones. The reason is safety and courtesy: a guest swinging a pole on a dark ride or in a crowd could hit someone or a piece of scenery. If you try to bring one in, security will politely confiscate it at the gate.
Because they can be dangerous and bothersome. Even on flat ground, a selfie stick can poke a bystander, block someone’s view, or damage movie sets or parade floats. Disney’s early ban came after several incidents at other parks, and it remains strictly enforced at all its locations. Just leave the stick in the car and use your arm!
Tripods taller than 6 feet, and monopods (single-leg tripods) taller than 6 feet, are not allowed. Tall tripods can trip people or fall in crowds. Small tripods that collapse to a backpack-friendly size are fine. If you bring a full-size tripod, security will ask you to pack it in your bag or remove it.
Yes, as long as it collapses small enough to fit in your approved bag. The park’s rule is that all tripods/monopods must fit in the guest’s bag. A typical 3-foot camera tripod that folds down is usually okay. If it protrudes, expect to have to carry it on the outside of your bag or store it.
No drones of any kind can be flown over or even carried in Disneyland. The airspace above Disneyland is restricted, and Disney explicitly bans remote-controlled aircraft. Drones are a major safety hazard at crowded events. If you arrive with a drone in your bag, security will require you to remove it.
Absolutely not. Neither Disney resort will allow a drone. Disneyland’s rules say no remote-controlled aircraft on property. It’s that clear.
Casual cameras, smartphones, and personal video cameras are fine. Disney even sells mounts and accessories for GoPros. However, any large professional setup (like TV cameras or lighting rigs) requires a permit. Also:
– Flags/Banners: Large flags on poles are not allowed (they can block views or poke someone). Small handheld flags are generally okay as long as they don’t have long sticks.
– Commercial Filming: If you’re filming a promotional video, movie, or anything for business, you need Disney’s written permission. Amateur vlogging without equipment is usually allowed, but anything that looks like a crew (tripod, crew vest) could get stopped.
Disneyland’s outside food rules are fairly friendly. Guests can bring many items for personal consumption.
Yes, outside food is allowed for personal use. Items like sandwiches, chips, fruit, cookies, and other common snacks are fine. The park welcomes families with baby food and juice boxes, and many visitors picnic on park benches or grass areas. The main limitations come from other policies: no glass containers (beyond baby jars), no large coolers, and no food for resale. So long as your food is clearly for yourself, you’re okay.
Yes. Disney states that outside meals and snacks are allowed. Guests often bring their own lunches or snacks to save money or meet dietary needs. Just pack it in an approved bag and avoid any items that break other rules. For example, bringing a wrapped cake for a friend’s birthday might be questioned, but sandwich bags and pre-packaged snacks are fine.
Practically none, except those that violate other rules. You can’t bring glassware or heaters; you can’t cook or grill (no portable stoves or propane). You can’t bring pet food for an unauthorized pet, of course. But almost any packaged or prepared food is okay. As a rule, if you’d find it normal to eat this on an airplane or bus, it’s fine at Disneyland.
Non-alcoholic drinks in plastic or metal containers are allowed. Bringing water bottles, juice, or soft drinks is encouraged. Disneyland even provides free cups of water at quick-service counters. The only drinks not allowed are alcoholic beverages and glass bottles.
Absolutely. Refillable water bottles are welcome. Disneyland has water fountains and serves complimentary ice water (just ask at any drink stand). The only requirement is that the container not be glass. So bring your stainless steel or plastic bottle.
Disneyland’s dress code focuses on safety and maintaining the park’s family-friendly atmosphere.
On regular park days, guests 14 years and older may not wear costumes. This includes outfits that look like Disney characters or accessories like full-size princess dresses or superhero capes. The intent is to prevent guests from being mistaken for Cast Members or official characters. However, adults may do “Disney bounding” – wearing outfits inspired by characters without actually dressing up. Also, costumes are allowed during special events.
Only at special ticketed events, such as Mickey’s Halloween Party. At those events, costumes are permitted (with some rules on weapon-like props and masks). On normal days, a Cast Member will politely ask any adult in a costume to change or cover up.
Events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Anaheim) and Oogie Boogie Bash (California Adventure) allow all ages to dress up. Each event publishes its own costume guidelines (for example, no full face masks even then). Outside of these, no full costumes for adults.
Children under 14 can wear costumes any day. It’s common to see kids in princess dresses, Jedi robes, etc. Disney only asks that their costumes are child-safe (no sharp parts, and masks must let them see clearly). Cast Members may do a quick check if a kid’s costume is bulky, but generally children’s outfits are not a problem.
Even without costumes, Disneyland expects guests to dress “appropriately.” Shoes and shirts must be worn. Clothing that is torn, excessively dirty, or dragging on the ground (tripping hazard) is not permitted. Offensive clothing (with explicit language, drug imagery, or nudity) is banned. If an outfit is too revealing or disturbing, staff will ask you to cover up.
For example, a completely bare midriff (unless covered by another garment) or a shirt promoting hate speech would be stopped. Security might then ask you to change into a provided T-shirt or leave. Usually these cases are resolved quickly, but Disney’s enforcement is based on “would the average family find this offensive or dangerous?” If yes, it’s not allowed.
Disneyland’s rules say any visible tattoo with offensive or extremist content should be covered. In reality, security doesn’t check tattoos at the gate. But if a guest has a very vulgar or hateful tattoo that others could see (for instance, a racial slur on an arm), Cast Members would quietly ask them to cover it. It’s rare, but worth noting.
Outside of cold-weather masks or medical masks, full face masks or coverings for guests 14 and up are not allowed. If you come in wearing a Halloween-style mask on a normal day, you’ll be asked to remove it. Children can wear masks for costumes, but must be able to see. Disneyland’s main concern is identification – security needs to see your face. So no big party masks or disguises, except on approved event days.
A few more items often surprise guests:
In summary: if you think an item is unusual or could be unsafe, it’s probably not allowed. When in doubt, leave it at home or verify with official Disneyland resources.
To balance the bans, here’s what you can bring:
The easiest rule of thumb: if it’s ordinary and compact, it’s probably okay. Disneyland’s official guidelines even recommend using Disney-themed bags or coolers (below the size limit). They want guests to be prepared, not worried. So pack your snacks, water, baby supplies, and you should have no trouble carrying them inside.
Beyond items, Disneyland’s rules forbid certain behaviors:
In essence, Disneyland is private property. The company explicitly states it can remove anyone for “unsafe, illegal or offensive” behavior. The best advice: don’t make scenes. Follow Cast Members’ instructions, respect other guests, and do not attempt to turn the park into anything other than fun.
If a guest breaks a rule, enforcement varies:
Disneyland’s rulebook makes one thing very clear: breaking rules can get you kicked out, with no money back. Guests are expected to comply with requests immediately. If a Cast Member says “turn off that vape” or “stop here,” do it calmly. Most of the time, a simple apology and correction resolve the issue. But the policy is firm that repeated or dangerous behavior will end your visit.
Under the park’s terms, if you are asked to leave due to a rule violation, you will not receive a refund for your ticket or any park experiences not used. For example, someone who cuts a ride line and gets removed does not get money back for that ride. This is standard: Disneyland will not compensate for lost time if the loss is due to the guest breaking the rules.
The system is designed to encourage compliance. In most cases, a single prompt or warning is enough. Only extreme or uncooperative cases end with bans or police involvement.
Here are some practical suggestions to sail through security:
A little preparation goes a long way. By following these tips, the security process should be quick and drama-free, leaving you more time for fun inside Disneyland.
Can I bring a lightsaber I bought in Galaxy’s Edge back into the park on another day?
Yes. Disneyland’s official policy is that toy lightsabers and similar toys purchased at Disneyland can be carried around the park. Guests often buy a lightsaber in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and keep it as a souvenir. Just remember: use it safely (no duels in crowds) and keep it in a safe carrying case when not in use.
Are Harry Potter wands from Universal allowed at Disneyland?
No. Any non-Disney-branded wand (e.g. from Harry Potter at Universal) is treated like a toy weapon. If security sees an outside wand that looks like it could hit someone, they will likely ask you to remove it. Only character wands sold at the Disney parks are explicitly allowed (and those are limited to Disney properties, anyway).
Can I bring a blanket to Disneyland for fireworks viewing?
Yes. Small blankets or throws are allowed (and many guests spread them out on the grass or shop-lined areas for shows). They must be handheld and easy to fold up when done. Don’t bring a giant multi-layer quilt. A typical picnic or stadium blanket works fine. Just be mindful of others when choosing your spot.
Are Service Animals allowed at Disneyland?
Absolutely. Trained service dogs and miniature horses are welcome, as long as they have the proper documentation. They must remain leashed or harnessed. (Emotional support animals without certification are not permitted.) Disneyland provides water bowls at certain stations for service animals. Service animals get to accompany their owners through most attractions and queues.
Can I bring glow sticks to Disneyland?
Yes. Glow sticks, glow bracelets, and LED toys are fine. They’re popular for evening events and fireworks. They pose no hazard (except maybe a litter hazard if dropped, so dispose of them properly). Disneyland even sells light-up toys, so bringing your own is no problem.
Can I bring a baby carrier or sling?
Yes. Baby carriers and slings (the soft fabric ones) are allowed and very common. These are considered part of your person rather than a “device,” so they’re welcome. Families use them often on rides for infants. You’ll see many parents wearing baby packs as they walk through the parks.
Before you go, tick off these essentials:
With this checklist done, you’re set to breeze through security and enjoy your day. Keep your prohibited items at home and pack your enthusiasm. Have a magical visit!
