Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in recent years, thanks to its accessibility and engaging gameplay. Whether you’re planning to build a pickleball court in your backyard or looking to understand the layout of an existing one, knowing the official court dimensions is essential. Here’s a complete breakdown of pickleball court dimensions and how they compare to other sports courts.
Standard Pickleball Court Dimensions
A pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court, making it a space-efficient choice for both residential and recreational areas. The standard dimensions are:
- Overall Court Size: 44 feet long by 20 feet wide, used for both singles and doubles play.
- Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen): This area extends 7 feet from the net on both sides. Players cannot volley the ball (hit it in the air) while standing in this zone.
- Service Courts: The area between the non-volley zone and the baseline is divided into two equal sections, known as the left and right service courts, by the centerline.
- Net Height: The net measures 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the center.
Space Requirements Around the Court
To ensure a comfortable playing experience, it’s recommended to have additional space around the court. The total recommended playing area is:
- Total Playing Surface: 60 feet long by 30 feet wide, providing room for players to move safely outside the court boundaries.
Comparison to Other Courts
- Pickleball vs. Tennis: A tennis court is much larger, measuring 78 feet long by 36 feet wide for doubles play. Pickleball’s compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller spaces.
- Pickleball vs. Badminton: Pickleball courts are similar in size to badminton courts, but with slightly different markings and net heights.
Key Markings on a Pickleball Court
A pickleball court includes several important lines and zones:
- Baseline: The back boundary line of the court.
- Sideline: The side boundary line of the court.
- Centerline: Divides the service area into left and right service courts.
- Non-Volley Zone Line: Marks the edge of the kitchen.
These markings are crucial for gameplay, ensuring players follow the rules and maintain fair play.
Why Dimensions Matter
Proper court dimensions ensure that games are played under standard rules and provide the best playing experience. Adhering to official dimensions also allows for smooth transitions between casual and competitive play, ensuring that players at all skill levels can enjoy the game.
Ready to Build Your Court?
If you’re considering adding a pickleball court to your backyard or community space, Stilson Outdoor Courts is here to help. Our professional installation services ensure your court meets all official specifications, providing a durable and high-quality playing surface. Contact us today to start building your pickleball paradise!