Disney ends decades-long beard ban

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 25 (UPI) -- The Walt Disney Co. said it is ending its nearly 60-year ban on beards for employees at its Florida and California theme parks.

The company said Monday the ban will end Feb. 3 and male employees at Walt Disney World and Disneyland will then be able to grow beards and sport them in public, the Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel reported Wednesday.

However, the company said facial hair will be restricted to no more than a quarter of an inch in length, be fully gown in and "must create an overall neat, polished and professional look."

"Disney Look guides are periodically reviewed, given the unique environment of our theme parks and resorts," Disney spokeswoman Andrea Finger said. "While we're careful to maintain our heritage and the integrity of our brand, a recent review of our guidelines led to a decision that an update was appropriate at this time."