Universal Makes Major Change to Mask Policy Ahead of Vaccination Requirement - Inside the Magic

Universal Studios Hollywood has frequently had health and safety procedures in place that differentiate it from its East Coast counterpart. When the Park first opened after its more than year-long closure, it was not selling tickets to out-of-state Guests. Then that changed, but all visitors from outside California had to prove that they were vaccinated.

Related: Universal’s (Confusing) Vaccine Requirements and What You Need to Know

Now, Universal is once again making a major change to its health and safety guidelines, reverting to an old policy that had been lifted.

Guests visiting Universal Studios Hollywood will now have to wear masks at all times while outside and inside unless they are actively eating and drinking in designated areas. This mask policy applies to all Guests, regardless of their vaccination status. According to the Universal Hollywood website:

Regardless of vaccination status, face coverings are required to be worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors, when visiting the theme park. At Universal CityWalk, face coverings are required to be worn within all indoor locations. Exposure to COVID-19 is an inherent risk in any public location where people are present; we cannot guarantee you will not be exposed during your visit.

Related: VACCINES: Universal Studios Hollywood Requires Them, Why Not Orlando?

The change in Universal Hollywood’s mask policy comes ahead of the October 7 date that will mark the start of Universal Studios and many other locations requiring proof of at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. Wineries, bars, breweries, and nightclubs will also be included in the new vaccination mandate. Restaurants with indoor dining will not be a part of the new mandate but are highly encouraged to follow the new procedures.

Universal Studios Hollywood is considered a “mega-event” with over 10,000 attendees, which is why it is required for the Park. Right now, the mandate only applies to locations within Los Angeles County, so other theme parks like Disneyland do not need to follow the same requirements.

At this time, Universal has not updated its website to inform visitors of the new policy that will begin on October 7.

Will you still be visiting Universal now that it has changed its mask policy? What about when proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required, per LA County? Let us know in the comments!

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