Disney World & Disneyland guests who break these rules to skip queue will be banned for life

Disney enthusiasts who fake disabilities to skip queues are facing severe repercussions lifetime bans from the parks. Disney's theme parks have been dealing with visitors feigning disabilities to avoid long lines, but a clampdown is now in effect.

Walt Disney World has overhauled its Disability Access Service (DAS) as of Tuesday, which was initially launched to help guests unable to endure long waits due to disabilities. Now, those attempting to deceive the system at Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida by falsely claiming a disability will encounter strict penalties.

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Disneyland's FAQ page now includes stringent new guidelines under the question: "What happens if any of the statements made by a Guest in the process of registering for DAS are found to be not true? " The consequences for gaming the system include permanent bans and invalidation of any previously bought passes.

Disney's stern warning states: "If it is determined that any of the statements a guest made in the process of obtaining DAS are not true, the guest will be permanently barred from entering the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and any previously purchased Annual Passes, Magic Key passes, tickets and other park products and services will be forfeited and not refunded."

Guests eligible for the programme won't technically be able to skip queues, but will instead be offered a virtual spot in the line, freeing up their time to explore other areas of the park. This could be used to grab a quick bite, shop for souvenirs or even take photos with Pluto or Mickey Mouse, reports the Mirror.

"Disney is dedicated to providing a great experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, which is why we are so committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our guests with disabilities have a wonderful time when visiting our theme parks," a Disney spokesperson said about its DAS in a statement.

The DAS amendments were designed to assist guests who have a "developmental disability like autism or similar" that makes it challenging to stand in busy queues. Those in wheelchairs or using mobility devices will often still be able to wait in lines.

It will only apply to a "small percentage" of guests, according to Disney, not the large numbers who were suspected of abusing the programme. Its usage has tripled over the past five years, Disney officials told Nexstar's Scott Gustin.

To enrol in the DAS initiative, guests must join a virtual video meeting with Inspire Health Alliance experts before their trip. Those previously on the programme will need to reapply to ensure those cheating the system are excluded.

No documentation of disability is needed, and a DAS pass is issued based on the advice of health professionals. These changes will take effect from May 20 at Disney World and June 18 at Disneyland.