Epic Universe Wizarding World Expansion: What the Permits Reveal

The next big Harry Potter experience at Epic Universe is one signature away from breaking ground.

Permits for the Wizarding World expansion at Epic Universe are now marked as “Ready to Issue” — meaning all the reviews are done and the only thing standing between permits going active and shovels in the ground is the payment of fees. For a 150,000 square foot attraction, that’s a significant milestone.

Quick Summary

• Permits for the Wizarding World expansion (Project 987) are now marked “Ready to Issue”
• Final plan reviews were completed at the end of February 2026
• The attraction is currently permitted as a one-story, 150,000 square foot structure
• The expansion will be built within land adjacent to the current Wizarding World area
• Fees must be paid before permits become fully active

Where Things Stand Right Now

Permits for the upcoming Wizarding World expansion are now marked as “Ready to Issue” — covering the construction of a massive 150,000 square foot new attraction. The final reviews were completed at the end of February, so all that’s required now is for fees to be paid before the permits become active. In permitting terms, “Ready to Issue” means the county has reviewed everything and signed off.

What We Know About the Structure

The permits have been updated to say the structure will only be one story tall, though it’s not confirmed if that is final. One story for 150,000 square feet is a massive footprint — larger than many standalone theme park attractions. A single-story build of that size suggests this could be an expansive, immersive walk-through environment, or a large-scale ride building with significant queue and themed space built around it.

The expansion is expected to go in the area of land already designated for Wizarding World growth, adjacent to the current Harry Potter area inside the park.

Why the Wizarding World Expansion Is a Big Deal

The original Wizarding World at Epic Universe — which covers Hogsmeade and Ministry of Magic content — was already one of the most ambitious themed areas Universal has ever built. A 150,000 square foot expansion on top of that signals Universal has no plans to slow down the Harry Potter investment.

For fans, this means more immersive space, likely more attractions, and a deeper experience than what already exists at the park today. Permits moving to “Ready to Issue” status is the fastest this story has moved in months. Expect construction activity to pick up noticeably in the expansion area in the coming weeks.

This is one of the most exciting builds coming to Epic Universe in the near term. We’ll keep tracking the permits and construction progress as it develops. Follow DisMornings for updates.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!