Change is happening all across Walt Disney World right now, and it’s hard to ignore. Construction walls are up, projects are underway, and new ideas are taking shape across the resort. It’s not just one big announcement driving it all—it’s a steady stream of updates happening at the same time.
And as always, the permits are where things start to come into focus.
Disney has filed 10 new permits for projects across Walt Disney World. On their own, they might not seem like major headlines. But when you put them together, they reveal a resort that’s actively evolving in multiple areas at once.
Permits 1–6 Highlight Lakeshore Lodge Progress
The largest portion of these permits is tied to Lakeshore Lodge, Disney’s upcoming resort near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. The project has already been gaining attention, and this latest development shows that work is continuing at a steady pace.
Six permits were filed for signage installation around the resort. That may seem like a minor detail, but signage typically signals a project entering a more developed phase.
Disney has said Lakeshore Lodge will be inspired by nature and the artistic influence of natural landscapes. With a projected 2027 opening, these filings show the resort is continuing to take shape and move closer to completion.
Permit 7 Adds to Port Orleans — Riverside Work
Next, the focus shifts to Disney’s Port Orleans — Riverside Resort. A new general construction permit has been filed for the main building, adding to the ongoing refurbishment work at the resort.
The permit lists Bruns, Inc. as the contractor, indicating that active work is underway. The broader refurbishment timeline for Port Orleans — Riverside now extends through August 2027, and this filing suggests the project may expand beyond standard updates.
Work on the main building could mean more noticeable changes for guests, even if Disney hasn’t shared specific details yet.
Permit 8 Keeps Big Top Souvenirs in the Spotlight
Magic Kingdom’s Big Top Souvenirs remains under refurbishment, and this new permit confirms the project is still progressing.
The filing covers general construction, which leaves the outcome open-ended. However, it does confirm that Disney is continuing to invest in the space.
MMR Constructors is handling the project, a familiar name in Disney construction work. For a shop located in a busy family area like Storybook Circus, even a modest refresh could have a meaningful impact.
Permit 9 Supports Hollywood Studios' Transformation
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney is transforming Animation Courtyard into The Walt Disney Studios, and this permit adds another piece to that effort.
The permit covers the installation of set elements that define the space’s look and feel. These details play a major role in creating the immersive environments Disney aims to deliver.
This filing shows the transformation continues to move forward, even as Disney finalizes many of the remaining details.
Permit 10 Brings Attention to EPCOT
The final permit takes us to EPCOT, where Disney is planning to install set elements at Refreshment Port. The location has been closed for refurbishment since January, and Disney hasn’t shared what changes are coming.
That’s why this filing matters. Set elements often suggest visual updates, which could mean a refreshed appearance when the location reopens.
Even small changes can stand out at EPCOT, and this permit hints that something new could be on the way.
The Bigger Picture
Looking at all 10 permits together, the message is clear. Disney World is continuing to build, update, and evolve across multiple areas.
From a brand-new resort at Lakeshore Lodge to ongoing work at Port Orleans — Riverside, from Magic Kingdom updates to changes at Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, this is a resort that isn’t standing still.
Some changes will be obvious the moment they’re finished. Others will unfold gradually. But taken together, these permits show that Disney World is still moving forward—and the resort's future is actively taking shape.
