What size is a pickleball court?
Officials' detail · The game · 1 of 1Checked 15 October 2026
The court is 20 ft by 44 ft (6.10 m by 13.41 m), with a 7 ft non-volley zone either side of the net. The net is 36 in high at the posts and 34 in in the middle. Paddles are solid, at most 17 in long with length plus width up to 24 in, and must be approved.
How it works
- Court: 20 by 44 ft.
- Non-volley zone: 7 ft deep.
- Net: 36 in posts, 34 in centre.
- Lines: part of the court.
- Paddle length: 17 in.
- Length plus width: 24 in.
- Surface: no rough texture.
- Ball: approved, one colour.
The glossary has the court, the paddle, the pickleball, the paddle approval, the playing surface and the apparel.
Tricky cases
A paddle is found illegal mid-match. Result?
The match is forfeited.
Is there a weight limit?
No.
Indoor and outdoor balls the same?
No. Indoor balls have larger holes, by custom.
Can players wear earbuds?
No, except hearing aids.
Why the rule exists
Banning rough faces limits extra spin, keeping the game about placement.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | Approved list | L 18.A |
| Found mid-match | Forfeit | L 18.A |
| Earbuds | Not allowed | L 18.D |
From the rule book
USA Pickleball, Official Rulebook (2026), Rules 3 and 18. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: USA Pickleball Official Rulebook 2026.