Can you touch the net in pickleball?
I · Intermediate · Serving and rallies · 3 of 5Checked 15 October 2026
While the ball is live no player or their kit may touch the net, its posts or the other side. The ball may not be hit before it crosses. A ball hit around the post is legal; one between net and post is not. A ball that hits a player is their fault. A continuous double hit is allowed.
How it works
- Touch net: fault.
- Cross before hitting: fault.
- Around the post: legal.
- Between net and post: fault.
- Ball hits you: fault.
- Paddle hand below wrist: counts as paddle.
- Continuous double hit: legal.
- Both partners: fault.
The glossary has the net faults, the plane of the net, the ATP, the double hit, the ball hits player and the catch or carry.
Tricky cases
The ball hits my partner before bouncing out. Result?
Our fault.
Can I step past the net to play a ball that bounced back?
Yes, after it crosses back to their side.
The ball hits my hand on the paddle. Fault?
No, if below the wrist.
A ball catches on the paddle face. Fault?
Yes, catch or carry.
Why the rule exists
Allowing a ball round the post rewards wide angles without loosening the net rules.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Net touch | Fault | L 13.F |
| Around post | Legal | L 13.C |
| Hand on paddle | Legal | L 10.C.3 |
From the rule book
USA Pickleball, Official Rulebook (2026), Rules 10, 12 and 13. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: USA Pickleball Official Rulebook 2026.