Pickleball Court Dimensions: Full Guide

Standard Court Size

A regulation pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. Unlike tennis, the size is the same whether the match is singles or doubles. This compact design is one of the reasons the game is so approachable — less ground to cover means more rallies and quicker reactions.

The net stretches across the width of the court at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. These details ensure consistency across all official courts, whether indoors or outdoors.

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The Non-Volley Zone

One of the most defining features of a pickleball court is the non-volley zone, often referred to as “the kitchen.” It extends 7 feet from the net on both sides and runs the full width of the court. Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing in this zone, making it a critical part of the game’s strategy and shot placement.

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Service Areas and Lines

Behind the non-volley zone are the right and left service courts, each 10 feet wide and 15 feet long. A centerline divides them, and players must serve diagonally into the opponent’s service court. The baseline marks the back of the court, and all serves must land within the boundaries.

These simple but precise markings keep play consistent while leaving room for a wide range of shot styles, from soft dinks to aggressive drives.

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Comparing Pickleball to Tennis and Badminton

Pickleball’s court size is significantly smaller than tennis, where a doubles court measures 36 feet wide and 78 feet long. This means that a single tennis court can often be converted into multiple pickleball courts.

Interestingly, pickleball’s dimensions are identical to a badminton doubles court. The resemblance is not coincidental — the creators of pickleball originally adapted badminton courts for play when the game was invented.

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Space Around the Court

While the playing area is 20 by 44 feet, it’s recommended that courts be placed within a larger space of about 30 feet by 60 feet. This extra room allows players to chase shots safely without stepping into walls, fences, or other hazards. Competitive facilities often provide even more clearance to support high-level play.

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Why Dimensions Matter

Court dimensions shape how pickleball is played. The smaller size makes the sport accessible for new players but also intensifies strategy, since quick reactions and precise placement matter as much as power. Understanding these dimensions not only helps with learning the game but is also essential for setting up proper courts at community centers, gyms, or backyards.