Disney Implements New Age Restriction Policy for Entry in 2026

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Sunny resort life meets childhood nostalgia with an artist's rendition of a beachfront getaway and an image of mickey mouse waving cheerfully.

Credit: Edited by Inside the Magic

Disney’s newest Storyliving community will have an age restriction that will alter who will be able to live in the community, as well as buy a house.

The Walt Disney Company has unveiled the launch of a new venture focused on developing residential communities, named Storyliving by Disney. Described by Disney as offering “distinctively designed spaces, unique amenities, and world-renowned service,” these communities aim to provide a unique living experience.

storyliving by disney
Credit: Disney

The inaugural community is slated to be established in Rancho Mirage, California, with additional locations across the United States being explored. Disney envisions these master-planned communities as places where residents can forge new connections, pursue their passions, and embark on exciting new chapters in their lives, all while enjoying the signature attention to detail, exclusive amenities, and special touches synonymous with Disney.

The choice of Rancho Mirage for the inaugural location holds special significance, as it pays homage to Walt Disney himself, who once owned a residence in the area where he spent leisure time with his family.

Dubbed Cotino, this inaugural Storyliving by Disney community will offer a range of housing options, including estates, single-family homes, and condominiums, along with designated neighborhoods tailored for “older” residents. Disney does not anticipate offering rental units. Residents will have the option to join a voluntary club membership, granting access to a variety of curated experiences, entertainment offerings, and philanthropic initiatives. Each section of the community will be overseen by Disney cast members.

Concept art for the Cotino Storyliving by Disney community, Parr House inspired by The Incredibles
Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Additionally, Disney has revealed plans for Cotino to feature a mixed-use district encompassing shopping, dining, and entertainment options. A beachfront hotel and beach park will also be present, accessible to both residents and the public with the purchase of a day pass.

“As we prepare to enter our second century, we are developing new and exciting ways to bring the magic of Disney to people wherever they are, expanding storytelling to storyliving. We can’t wait to welcome residents to these beautiful and unique Disney communities where they can live their lives to the fullest,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

The Cotino community will provide residents with the option to opt into a membership at the Artisan Club, where they can access supplementary amenities imbued with distinctive Disney and Pixar elements. Among these offerings is a designated area inspired by Incredibles 2, tailored for leisure activities and social gatherings.

Disney recently launched The Blueprint, an in-depth blog about the making of Storyliving in California, which is well underway. In the post, we were able to see the development of Longtable Park, a park that is inspired by Walt, and the model homes that are being constructed. We were also reminded of a fact that had been made clear from the beginning; however, not too many people had highlighted it.

In italics at the base of the article, Disney writes: “Disney community, which plans are subject to change or cancellation in part or whole, at any time without notice. Community is for people of all ages with select home sites intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years or older, except as otherwise permitted under limited circumstances.”

storyliving by disney lifestyle
Credit: Disney

It appears that Disney is attempting to have part of Storyliving be a “retirement living” section.

In California, to qualify as a senior living community, “CC&Rs must state that at least one person in the dwelling must be a senior citizen, i.e, a qualified permanent resident (55 years of age or older or 62 years of age or older depending on the category of the senior community) and that each other resident in the same dwelling must be a qualified permanent resident.”

So, that appears to be what Disney is doing. This means that only one resident in the home has to be 55+; however, other residents do not have to be. Disney specifically states “at least one person” must be of age.

In California, the Fair Housing Act includes exemptions for three categories of housing intended for older individuals, shielding them from liability for discrimination based on familial status. These exempt housing facilities or communities are permitted to legally decline sales or rentals to families with young children only if they meet the criteria for the exemption. To qualify for the “housing for older persons” exemption, a facility or community must adhere to all the specified requirements.

Concept art for the Cotino Storyliving by Disney community, recreational area
Credit: Disney Parks Blog

As stated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: 

The Housing for Older Persons exemptions apply to the following housing:

  • Provided under any state or federal program that the Secretary of HUD has determined to be specifically designed and operated to assist elderly persons (as defined in the state or federal program);
  • Intended for, and solely occupied by persons 62 years of age or older; or
  • Intended and operated for occupancy by persons 55 years of age or older.

The 55 or older exemption is the most common of the three, and that is what Disney is taking advantage of.

While there will be a senior living section of Storyliving, there will also be areas that are meant for young families, and residents of all ages.

Sunset at the park: a vibrant gathering of community members enjoying a tranquil evening amidst lush greenery and golden light.
Credit: Disney

This same setup will also be held in North Carolina.

The planned community, named Asteria, will span 1,500 acres in Chatham County, North Carolina, and will encompass over 4,000 residences, comprising both single-family and multifamily homes. Certain areas within the development will be specifically allocated for individuals aged 55 and older.

Sales for homes in Asteria are expected to begin by 2027.

Home sales in Cotino will commence this year, with additional milestones scheduled for 2025 and 2026. Cotino, the Disney-branded development in Rancho Mirage, featuring hundreds of residences, a swimmable lagoon, and a resort hotel, is gradually progressing, and it was also revealed that home prices will start at over $1 million.

Would you like to retire in this new Storyliving community? 

 

 

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