How Big is a Pickleball Court

If you're new to pickleball or simply curious about the dimensions of the court, you've come to the right place. The size and layout of a pickleball court are crucial to understanding the game and setting up your own playing area. In this blog post, we’ll explore the exact measurements of a pickleball court, the significance of each section, and tips for setting up your court.

Official Pickleball Court Dimensions

A standard pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, the same dimensions used for both singles and doubles play. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the court layout:

1. Overall Court Dimensions:

   • Width: 20 feet (6.1 meters)
   • Length: 44 feet (13.41 meters)

2. Net Height:

   • Center Height: 34 inches (86.36 cm)
   • Sideline Height: 36 inches (91.44 cm)

3. Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen):

   • Depth: 7 feet (2.13 meters) from the net on both sides
   • This area extends across the entire width of the court (20 feet).

4. Service Courts:

   • Left and Right Service Courts: Each service court is 10 feet wide and 15 feet long, divided by the centerline.

Detailed Court Layout

1. The Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen):

   • The non-volley zone extends 7 feet from the net on both sides of the court.
   • Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air without letting it bounce) while standing in this zone.
   • This rule encourages strategic play and ensures longer rallies.

2. Service Courts:

   • The service area is divided into two equal sections by a centerline.
   • When serving, the ball must land in the diagonally opposite service court.
   • The server stands behind the baseline and must serve underhand.

3. Baselines and Sidelines:

   • The baseline is the back boundary line on either end of the court.
   • The sidelines are the boundary lines running the length of the court.

Setting Up a Pickleball Court

If you’re looking to set up your own pickleball court, whether it’s in your backyard, a community center, or a gym, here are some tips:

1. Surface:

   • A smooth, level surface is ideal. Concrete, asphalt, or a gym floor are common choices.
   • Ensure the surface is free of debris and cracks for safe play.

2. Marking the Court:

   • Use tape or paint to mark the court lines. Temporary chalk or court marker kits can be used for a non-permanent setup.
   • Ensure the lines are 2 inches wide and clearly visible.

3. Net Setup:

   • Use a portable pickleball net or install a permanent net system.
   • Ensure the net height is 34 inches at the center and 36 inches at the sidelines.

4. Space Around the Court:

   • Allow extra space around the court for players to move freely. Ideally, have at least 10 feet of clear space on all sides.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Courts

• Indoor Courts: Typically found in gyms or sports complexes. These courts offer consistent playing conditions free from wind and other weather elements.
• Outdoor Courts: Often set up in parks or dedicated pickleball facilities. Outdoor courts may have different surface types like asphalt or concrete and require weather-resistant equipment.

Conclusion

The dimensions of a pickleball court are designed to provide a balanced playing field for all participants, whether in singles or doubles play. By understanding and properly setting up the court, players can enjoy the game to its fullest. Whether you’re setting up a court at home or looking to play at a local facility, knowing these dimensions will ensure you have the right space for an exciting and fair game of pickleball.

For tips on serving checkout this article!

Checkout a wide variety of beginner, intermediate, and advanced pickleball paddles here!