The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit on March 26, 2026, against United Parks & Resorts Inc., alleging the company violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by banning rollator walkers with seats from its theme parks. The lawsuit targets policies at SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Discovery Cove Orlando, and Aquatica Orlando that prevented guests with mobility disabilities from bringing essential mobility equipment into the parks.

The policy change took effect in November 2025, when United Parks quietly updated its online policies to prohibit wheeled walkers and rollators with seats while still allowing wheeled walkers without seats. After FOX 35 Orlando reported on the ban, the DOJ announced it would investigate following numerous complaints from disabled guests.

What the DOJ Alleges

The Justice Department claims United Parks' policy "facially violates" Title III of the ADA by preventing children, veterans, and other individuals with disabilities from accessing public accommodations. The lawsuit alleges the company discriminated against disabled guests by categorically banning mobility devices many people depend on to navigate large venues safely.

"The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon in the DOJ's press release.

The DOJ's investigation found that the ban prevented disabled guests from entering parks they had traveled significant distances to visit, forcing families to choose between using essential mobility equipment and accessing entertainment venues.

United Parks' Defense

United Parks & Resorts has defended the policy by citing safety concerns and instances of misuse. The company indicated that some rollators were being used inconsistently with manufacturer guidelines, including functioning as makeshift wheelchairs in crowded environments. The company has not publicly committed to reversing the policy while litigation is pending.

What the DOJ Seeks

The lawsuit asks the court to:

• Issue an order forcing United Parks to stop discriminating against individuals with disabilities
• Require the company to modify its policies to comply with the ADA
• Mandate staff training on ADA requirements
• Award monetary damages to compensate guests subjected to discrimination
• Impose civil penalties on United Parks

The case will determine whether private theme park operators can categorically ban specific mobility devices based on operational concerns or whether such bans constitute per se ADA violations.

What This Means for Families

This lawsuit clarifies that ADA Title III protections extend to private theme parks and similar entertainment venues. Businesses open to the public can't categorically exclude mobility devices people with disabilities need to access their facilities.

The distinction United Parks made between rollators with seats versus without seats illustrates how narrow device-based exclusions can still violate the ADA when they prevent disabled guests from participating in public life. The DOJ's position is that mobility needs vary and businesses must accommodate the equipment individual guests require, not dictate which devices are acceptable based on venue preferences.

For families planning theme park visits, this case reinforces that you have the right to bring the mobility equipment you need. If a venue has safety concerns about specific device use in certain areas, the ADA requires them to work with you on modifications or alternatives rather than issuing blanket bans.

What Families Can Do Now

If you've been denied access to a theme park or other public venue because of your mobility equipment:

• Document the incident with photos, written notes about what staff said, and the date and location
• File a complaint with the DOJ's Civil Rights Division at civilrights.justice.gov or call 1-800-514-0301
• Request written confirmation of the venue's policy and save any email or website documentation
• Contact disability rights organizations in your state for support

If you're planning a theme park visit and use a rollator or other mobility device, call ahead to confirm the current policy. Ask to speak with guest services and request written confirmation of what equipment is permitted. If you're told certain devices aren't allowed, ask for the specific policy in writing and inquire about alternative accommodations they can provide.

Timeline

November 2025: United Parks updates online policies to ban rollators with seats

February 2026: FOX 35 Orlando reports on the policy; DOJ announces investigation

March 26, 2026: DOJ files lawsuit against United Parks & Resorts

The case is ongoing, with no trial date set. Policy changes, if ordered, would likely apply to all twelve United Parks locations nationwide.

Where to Find More Information

The DOJ's full press release is available on the Department of Justice website. For general information about ADA rights, visit the ADA National Network or read our guide on how to request workplace accommodations under the ADA.

Families affected by similar access denials at other venues can file complaints through the DOJ's online portal at civilrights.justice.gov.