Hong Kong no exception as Disney bans selfie sticks at theme parks worldwide

Disney will ban selfie sticks at its theme parks around the world – including Hong Kong – the company said today, joining a growing list of attractions that restrict the camera accessories for safety reasons.

Beginning on Tuesday next week, the company will not allow selfie sticks, which are extension rods used for taking self-portraits with smartphones, at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, as well as Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

The ban will begin on Wednesday at parks in Hong Kong and Paris.

“We strive to provide a great experience for the entire family, and unfortunately selfie sticks have become a growing safety concern for both our guests and cast,” Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty said in a statement.

Disney tried allowing selfie sticks in the park but not on rides, according to Prunty. But violators were forcing park staff to stop rides for extended periods of time, including on Wednesday when a roller coaster was shut down at Disneyland, frustrating other guests.

Starting next week, security personnel will ask Disney guests who arrive with selfie sticks at the parks to stow them at a storage facility or return the sticks to their hotels or cars, the company said.