Disney has announced it will ban smoking within its theme parks, as part of a new policy set to come into action later this spring.
A blog post on the Disney Parks blog explained that from 1 May 2019, there will no longer be smoking areas at Disney theme parks and water parks. However, the ban will not apply to Disney hotels, where there will still be designated areas for smokers.
The blog post said: "Beginning May 1, smoking areas will no longer be present inside Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks, water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex or Downtown Disney District in California.
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"Designated smoking areas will be available outside the entrances of the areas listed above and at Disney Springs in Florida."
It added: "For guests who have room or dining reservations, smoking areas are also available at Disney Resort hotels."
Disney spokeswoman Erica Ettori told the Orlando Sentinel that enforcing the smoking ban will be left to Disney employees, explaining Disney has no plans to punish people who are caught smoking.
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Ettori also added that any visitors asked to leave for smoking within the park will be permitted to return inside once they've smoked outside.
Dennis Speigel, president of Ohio-based International Theme Park Service, has praised the move from Disney.
He told the Orlando Senitel: "It's about time. It's the happiest place on Earth.
"Why should people be subjected to smoke at Disney?"
According to the New York Times, smoking has already been restricted in most sections of Disney parks, and designated smoking areas inside the parks have been dwindling in number.
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The FAQ section of the Disney World website also explains how the Disney Resort hotel's smoke-free policy is enforced, outlining a $250-$500 charge for quests who smoke in the rooms, on balconies or on patios.
"To cover the costs of cleaning and restoring the room to a smoke-free condition, a US $250 to US $500 room recovery fee plus tax (based on the Disney Resort hotel and room type) will be charged to Guests who smoke in hotel rooms, on balconies or on patios," it says.
"Each Disney Resort hotel features designated outdoor smoking areas. When you check in, you'll receive a map of the Resort hotel that will illustrate the designated smoking areas. The Concierge and Front Desk are available to direct you to the nearest smoking location."
The Disney blog also said the company would be adjusting its guidelines on stroller sizes used in the park, as part of plans designed to 'help guest flow and ease congestion, making the parks more enjoyable for everyone'.
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From 1 May, strollers will have to be no larger than 31″ (79cm) wide and 52″ (132cm) long.
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