This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this permit. In fact, it’s the third time this year. A “notice of commencement” was just filed on December 26th for demolition and general construction at the park’s iconic center, The Tree of Life.
Here is why people are paying attention: a previous version of this permit filed just days ago was set to expire on December 30th. Most people figured that meant a quick, overnight fix. However, this new version removes that deadline, extending the permit through December 25, 2026.
With a full year now on the clock, the work could be much bigger than a simple repair. We already know the Tree of Life is due for a major refurbishment in 2026. If you’ve visited lately, you might have noticed safety nets in the queue area under the tree. Those are likely temporary measures to ensure the safety of guests until the actual construction begins.
Despite the word “demolition” appearing in the paperwork, Disney is not tearing down the Tree of Life. It’s the symbol of the park. Most likely, the “demo” refers to removing old parts of the structure or the surrounding area to make room for new tech or structural updates.
This could mean we will see scaffolding erected around the Tree of Life soon, which would go along with the theme for 2026 at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom: Construction! Encanto is being built on the former Chester & Hester’s spot, DINOSAUR! is being closed soon to be rethemed into Indiana Jones, and the rest of Dino Land USA is being demolished for the future home of Tropical Americas.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether will remain open during whatever construction is happening at the Tree of Life.
