Pickleball Court Dimensions: Complete Guide to Size, Net Height, and Setup

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and for good reason. It’s a game that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, making it accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels. But before you can enjoy a game of pickleball, you need to understand the dimensions and layout of a pickleball court.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything from court size to surface options, ensuring you have all the information needed to set up your own pickleball court.

Standard Pickleball Court Dimensions

A pickleball court has specific dimensions that must be followed to comply with official rules and ensure fair play.

• Court Size: The standard size of a pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (6.10m by 13.41m). This is the same size as a doubles badminton court.
• Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen): Extends 7 feet (2.13m) from the net on both sides, and players cannot volley the ball while standing in this zone.
• Net Height: The net is 36 inches (91.44cm) high at the sidelines and 34 inches (86.36cm) high at the center.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Additional Play Area Considerations

While the dimensions above define the court itself, it’s also important to consider the surrounding area to ensure players have enough space to move safely.

• Minimum Play Area: USA Pickleball recommends a total play area of 30 feet wide by 60 feet long (9.14m by 18.29m). This includes the court and out-of-bounds space.
• Preferred Play Area: For optimal play, a larger area of 34 feet wide by 64 feet long (10.36m by 19.51m) is recommended. This extra space helps prevent collisions and allows for better movement during play.

Converting Existing Courts for Pickleball

If you don't have a dedicated pickleball court, you can convert existing sports courts into pickleball courts. Here’s how to do it:

Converting a Tennis Court

• Single Court Conversion: Use tape or chalk to mark out the pickleball court dimensions on one side of the tennis court. Lower the tennis net to 34 inches at the center.
• Double Court Conversion: If space allows, two pickleball courts can be set up on a single tennis court by using the centerline of the tennis court as the centerlines for each pickleball court.

Converting a Badminton Court

• Easy Transition: Since the court dimensions are identical, you simply need to adjust the net height to 34 inches in the center and 36 inches at the sides.

Optimal Net Size and Setup for Pickleball Courts

The net is a critical component of a pickleball court, as it serves as the central barrier that players must hit the ball over. Understanding the correct net dimensions and setup is crucial for maintaining the integrity and enjoyment of the game.

Standard Net Dimensions

The official dimensions of a pickleball net, as specified by USA Pickleball, are as follows:

• Net Length: 22 feet (6.71 meters) from post to post.
• Net Height (Center): 34 inches (86.36 cm).
• Net Height (Sidelines): 36 inches (91.44 cm).

This height difference is intentional to create a slight arc in the net, which ensures consistent play across the entire width of the court.

Net Overhang

The net should extend slightly beyond the 20-foot width of the court, with the additional length allowing the net to be securely fastened to the posts on either side. The standard net length of 22 feet provides approximately one foot of overhang on each side of the court. This overhang is essential for two reasons:

1. Stability: The extra length ensures that the net can be tightly secured, maintaining the correct height at both the sidelines and the center.
2. Visual Cues: The overhang helps players gauge the court boundaries, particularly during fast-paced play.

Optimal Setup Tips

• Ensure Proper Tension: The net should be taut across its length without sagging in the middle. Most nets come with an adjustable center strap that can be used to achieve the correct tension.
• Center Strap Usage: The center strap helps maintain the required 34-inch height in the middle, even when the net is tightly stretched.
• Post Positioning: The posts should be placed just outside the 20-foot court width, ensuring that the net does not interfere with play while still providing enough support to keep it steady.

Here’s a quick checklist for setting up the net correctly:

• Measure the height at the sidelines (36 inches) and center (34 inches).
• Adjust the tension so that the net remains level and secure.
• Use the center strap to maintain the correct height at the center.
• Ensure the posts are positioned so the net extends slightly beyond the sidelines for optimal stability.

Surface Options for Pickleball Courts

The surface of your pickleball court can greatly affect the playability and safety of the game. Here are the most common surfaces used for pickleball courts:

• Concrete/Asphalt: Durable and commonly used for outdoor courts. Offers a consistent bounce.
• Polyurethane: Often used indoors, this surface provides cushioning, which is easier on the joints.
• Modular Tiles: These can be laid over any hard surface and provide good traction and some cushioning. Ideal for temporary or multi-purpose courts.
• Grass/Clay: While less common, these surfaces can be used but may not offer the same consistency in bounce.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Setting Up Your Own Pickleball Court

If you're ready to set up your own pickleball court, follow these steps:

Marking the Court

1. Measure the Court: Use a measuring tape to mark out the court dimensions.
2. Place the Net: Set up your net at the correct height, making sure it’s 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.
3. Mark the Non-Volley Zone: Measure 7 feet from the net on each side and mark the boundaries of the kitchen.
4. Draw the Sidelines and Baselines: Mark the sidelines and baselines using tape or chalk, ensuring they are 20 feet apart in width and 44 feet apart in length.
5. Create Service Areas: Divide each side of the court into two equal service areas using a centerline.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions About Pickleball Court Dimensions

Can I play pickleball on a tennis court?

Yes, a tennis court can easily be converted into one or more pickleball courts. Temporary tape or chalk can be used to mark the dimensions.

What is the minimum space required for a pickleball court?

The minimum recommended total play area is 30 feet by 60 feet. However, a space of 34 feet by 64 feet is preferred for safety.

Can I make a pickleball court in my backyard?

Yes, you can set up a pickleball court in your backyard if you have a flat space at least 20 feet by 44 feet in size, plus additional space for safety margins.

This guide provides all the essential information you need to understand and set up a pickleball court. Whether you’re converting an existing court or creating one from scratch, you’ll be able to enjoy this popular and engaging sport in no time.