What is the 3 feet rule in netball?
B · Beginner · Defending and sanctions · 7 of 8A defender may defend a player holding the ball only from at least 0.9 m (3 ft) away, measured on the ground from the landing foot to the defender's nearer foot. Closer, the defender may stand but not try to defend. Off the ball, no player may hold the arms out to block. The sanction is a penalty pass.
How it works
- Distance: 0.9 m (3 ft).
- Measured: landing foot to nearer foot.
- Closer: stand, but do not defend.
- Arms out: not to block a player off the ball.
- Rebounds: may be played within 0.9 m.
- Fake pass: may be defended.
- Major infringement: yes.
- Sanction: penalty pass.
The glossary has the obstruction, the fake pass, the landing foot, the penalty pass, the marking and the rebound.
Tricky cases
The player with the ball steps towards the defender. Obstruction?
No. If the ball holder closes the gap, the defender may still defend.
Can a defender jump from 0.9 m and land closer?
Yes, if the landing does not interfere with the pass or shot.
Can a defender stand close with arms down?
Yes.
Can a player within 0.9 m reach for a rebound?
Yes, from an unsuccessful shot.
Why the rule exists
The distance gives the ball holder space to pass, which netball depends on.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | 0.9 m | L 16.1 |
| Off the ball | No arms out | L 16.6 |
| Rebound | Allowed | L 16.8 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rule 16. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.