A pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, baseline-to-baseline.
If you came here asking what's the size of a pickleball court, you’re in the right place. I’ve lined, measured, and played on more courts than I can count, and this guide breaks it all down in clear steps. We’ll cover exact measurements, how lines work, space you need around the court, and how to build or mark one at home. By the end, you’ll know what's the size of a pickleball court and how to use that knowledge in real life.
Standard pickleball court dimensions
The official pickleball court is a rectangle that measures 20 feet by 44 feet. That size is the same for singles and doubles. Measurements are to the outside edges of the lines, which are part of the court. The net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.
Key numbers to know:
- Court size: 20 ft wide x 44 ft long
- Non-volley zone (the kitchen): 7 ft on each side of the net
- Service area depth: 15 ft from the kitchen line to the baseline
- Line width: typically 2 inches and in-bounds
- Metric: 6.10 m x 13.41 m; kitchen is 2.13 m; net 0.914 m at posts, 0.864 m at center
If a friend asks what's the size of a pickleball court, this is your short answer. But the space around the court also matters, and I explain that next.
Lines and zones explained
The baseline runs along the back of the court. The sidelines are the long edges. The centerline splits the left and right service courts. Each service court is 10 feet wide and 15 feet deep. The non-volley zone is the 7-foot strip by the net on both sides.
How it plays out:
- Serves go cross-court into the 10-by-15 foot service box.
- Any shot that lands on a line is good.
- You cannot volley while standing in the kitchen or on its line.
When people ask what's the size of a pickleball court, they often mean the playing area they can use. These lines define that space and keep play fair and clear.
Singles vs doubles and ideal runoff space
Singles and doubles share the same court size: 20 by 44 feet. What changes is movement and spacing needs around the court. More players often means more chase-down shots and wider angles.
Recommended space around the court:
- Minimum playing area: 30 ft x 60 ft
- Preferred for clubs or events: 34 ft x 64 ft
- Extra space feels safer and reduces foot faults and wall bumps
If you run a facility, people will still ask what's the size of a pickleball court. Give the short 20-by-44 answer, then add your room size. That sets good expectations.
Indoor vs outdoor setup
Outdoors, court orientation matters. Aim for a north-south layout to reduce sun glare. Asphalt or concrete with a textured acrylic surface plays well and lasts. Indoors, wood or sport tiles feel fast but consistent.
Quick setup tips:
- Manage glare with matte paint and correct light angles
- Target at least 30–50 foot-candles of light for clear play
- Use windbreaks or fences outdoors for fair conditions
Players often Google what's the size of a pickleball court before building in a driveway or yard. Add room for fences, benches, and safe runouts so the court plays right.
How to measure and mark your court
I’ve marked courts on tennis courts, in gyms, and in cul-de-sacs. A tape measure, chalk, and care go a long way. Keep lines square and true, and your games will feel pro.
Step-by-step:
- Measure 44 feet for each sideline. Mark both baselines at 20 feet wide.
- Snap chalk lines for the 20×44 rectangle. Check it is square by measuring both diagonals.
- The correct diagonal is about 48 feet 4 inches. Both should match.
- From the net line, mark 7 feet on each side for the kitchen lines.
- From the kitchen line to the baseline is 15 feet. Mark the centerline to split each service area into 10-foot widths.
For tape or paint, hold to 2-inch lines for good visibility. And when someone asks what's the size of a pickleball court on-site, show the rectangle first, then add the kitchen and centerline. It clicks fast.
Practical tips, common mistakes, and safety
I learned these the hard way while setting up my first community court. Small errors make big problems. Correct them early.
Watch for:
- Not enough runoff space, which causes foot faults or crashes
- A sagging net below 34 inches at center
- Kitchen lines not at a true 7 feet
- Slippery paint or dusty indoor floors
- Lines that are too thin to see in bright sun
If you forget what's the size of a pickleball court during layout, keep a cheat sheet in your pocket. It saves time and stops rework.
Court variations for kids, driveways, and small spaces
You can scale the game. For kids or tight spots, try shorter baselines but keep the 20-foot width if you can. Portable nets and court tape let you set up fast and clean up with no mess.
Ideas that work:
- Use a 20-by-36 foot short court for young players
- Lower-compression balls indoors to reduce bounce and noise
- Chalk first, then paint once you love the layout
Even then, people will ask what's the size of a pickleball court. Teach the official 20 by 44, and note your modified setup as a fun practice size.
Frequently Asked Questions of what's the size of a pickleball court
Is the court size the same for singles and doubles?
Yes. Singles and doubles both use 20 by 44 feet. Only player count and tactics change.
How high is a pickleball net?
It is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. Check center height often, as nets sag.
How big is the non-volley zone, and why does it matter?
The kitchen is 7 feet on each side of the net. It prevents easy put-aways and keeps rallies fair.
What space do I need around a court for safe play?
Aim for at least 30 by 60 feet overall. If you can, use 34 by 64 feet for more comfort.
Can I put a pickleball court over a tennis court?
Yes. A tennis court can host two to four pickleball courts. Use removable tape or paint with proper measurements.
Do line widths count in the court size?
Yes. Lines are in-bounds and included in the 20 by 44 feet. Standard line width is 2 inches.
What’s the best surface for a home court?
Textured acrylic over asphalt or concrete is popular. Indoors, sport tiles or wood with a light texture work well.
Conclusion
You now know what's the size of a pickleball court and how that size shapes play. The court is 20 by 44 feet, with a 7-foot kitchen on both sides and a net at 36 and 34 inches. Give yourself room around the court, mark lines with care, and keep the surface safe.
Take the next step. Measure your space, sketch your layout, and set a date to tape or paint. If this helped, share it with a friend, subscribe for more guides, or leave a comment with your court questions.