Pickleball Court Guide: Dimensions, Setup & Cost to Build One

Pickleball is booming, and the demand for places to play has never been higher. What was once a niche backyard game has exploded into a global phenomenon, with community centers, sports clubs, and homeowners scrambling to set up courts. Whether you’re a player wanting to understand the game better, a club manager looking to add a new facility, or a homeowner dreaming of a private court, this guide is for you.

The beauty of pickleball lies in its accessibility, and that extends to its court. It’s smaller than a tennis court, making it easier to fit into various spaces and cheaper to build. From temporary setups in a driveway to professional-grade installations, understanding the specifics is key. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every detail of pickleball courts, from official dimensions and layout to building costs, surface types, and creative ways to play on other sports courts.

Pickleball Court Dimensions

Getting the dimensions right is the first and most critical step in setting up a proper pickleball court. The official size is universal for both singles and doubles play, which simplifies things greatly. A correctly sized court ensures fair play and helps players develop skills that translate to any regulation court in the world.

Standard Court Size

A standard pickleball court is a rectangle measuring 44 feet long (13.41 meters) and 20 feet wide (6.10 meters). This measurement includes the outer boundary lines (baselines and sidelines). The total playing area is 880 square feet (approximately 81.75 square meters).

Here’s a breakdown of the dimensions:

• Length: 44 feet / 13.41 meters
• Width: 20 feet / 6.10 meters
• Total Playing Area: 880 square feet / 81.75 square meters

However, a pickleball court needs extra space around the playing area, known as the out-of-bounds area or overrun. This space allows players to move safely without hitting a fence, wall, or other obstruction. The recommended minimum total size for a standalone court, including this out-of-bounds space, is 64 feet long by 34 feet wide. For tournament-level play, an even larger area of 80 feet by 40 feet is often preferred.

Singles vs. Doubles – Is There a Difference?
Unlike tennis, where the court has “alleys” for doubles play that are out of bounds for singles, the pickleball court dimensions are identical for both singles and doubles matches. The entire 44 by 20-foot area is in play for everyone, which is one of the reasons the game is so easy to learn.

Comparison with Other Racket Sports:
To put the size into perspective, let’s compare it to other popular court sports:

• Tennis Court: A regulation tennis court is 78 feet long by 36 feet wide (including doubles alleys), making it significantly larger. The total footprint, including runoff areas, is typically 120 feet by 60 feet.
• Badminton Court: A badminton court is the same length as a pickleball court (44 feet) but can be narrower (17 feet for singles, 20 feet for doubles). Because the dimensions are so close, badminton courts are excellent candidates for temporary pickleball conversions.
• Padel Court: A padel court is 20 meters (65.6 feet) long and 10 meters (32.8 feet) wide and is enclosed by walls. While longer, it feels more compact due to the glass or wire-mesh walls used in play.

Net Height

The pickleball net is a crucial component, and its height is specific. It is lower than a tennis net, which encourages long rallies and makes the game more accessible for players of all ages and athletic abilities.

The official regulation net height is:

• 36 inches (0.914 meters) high at the sidelines.
• 34 inches (0.86 meters) high in the center.

This slight sag in the middle is intentional and is usually created by a center strap that pulls the net down. The net posts should be placed just outside the sidelines, typically about one foot away from the court on each side. The total width of the net should extend at least 22 feet to cover the entire width of the court and the small gap to the posts.

Differences vs. Tennis and Badminton Nets:

• Tennis Net: A tennis net is 42 inches high at the posts and 36 inches high in the center. The higher net in tennis requires players to hit the ball with more topspin to bring it down into the court.
• Badminton Net: A badminton net is significantly higher, standing at 5 feet 1 inch at the edges and 5 feet in the center. This height is designed for the lightweight shuttlecock, which is played with an upward trajectory.

Pickleball Court Layout & Markings

Once you have the outer dimensions, the next step is to mark the internal lines. These lines define the different zones of the court and are fundamental to the rules of the game. All lines should be 2 inches wide and should contrast with the color of the court surface. White or yellow are the most common colors.

The key zones of a pickleball court are:

• Baselines: The two lines at the back of the court, 44 feet apart.
• Sidelines: The two lines running along the sides of the court, 20 feet apart.
• Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen): This is a 7-foot zone on each side of the net. The line marking the back of the kitchen is called the non-volley line. The total width of the kitchen from one side to the other is 14 feet. Players are not allowed to hit a volley (hitting the ball out of the air) while standing in this zone. This rule prevents players from smashing the ball at the net and encourages the softer “dink” shots that define pickleball strategy.
• Service Courts: The area between the non-volley line and the baseline is divided in half by a center line. This creates two service courts on each side: a right service court and a left service court. Each service court measures 10 feet wide by 15 feet long. Serves must land in the diagonal service court to be considered valid.

How to Line a Court (Temporary vs. Permanent)

Temporary Markings:
For a DIY or temporary pickleball court setup, you have several options for creating lines.

• Chalk: The cheapest and easiest method. Sidewalk chalk works well on asphalt or concrete. It’s perfect for a day of play but will wash away with rain or wear off quickly.
• Painter’s Tape: Blue or green painter’s tape is a great option for indoor courts (like a gym floor) or smooth outdoor surfaces. It sticks well but can be removed without leaving a sticky residue.
• Gaffer Tape: More durable and weather-resistant than painter’s tape, gaffer tape is a good choice for outdoor courts that will be used for several weeks.
• Temporary Court Line Kits: You can buy kits that include flexible plastic lines that you lay down to form the court. These are reusable and provide a clear, consistent boundary.

Permanent Markings:
For a dedicated, long-term court, you’ll want permanent lines.

• Acrylic Line Paint: This is the standard for professional courts. The surface is first cleaned and prepared, and then the lines are painted using specialized court paint that adheres well to asphalt or concrete and can withstand weather and heavy use.
• Line-Painting Services: Many companies that specialize in building or resurfacing tennis courts also offer line-painting services for pickleball. They will use professional equipment to ensure the lines are perfectly straight and meet regulation width.

Educational infographic-style illustrations of a pickleball court. Clean, modern flat design with bright colors and clear labels. Show official court dimensions (20×44 ft), kitchen/non-volley zone, service areas, and baselines. Include step-by-step visuals for setup, cost breakdown icons (materials, net, surface, lighting), and aerial views of completed pickleball courts. Consistent style across all images, professional and easy to understand for a sports blog.

How to Build a Pickleball Court

Building a pickleball court can range from a simple weekend project to a major construction undertaking. The path you choose depends on your budget, space, and desired level of quality.

DIY Court Setup

A DIY pickleball court is the fastest and most affordable way to start playing. It’s perfect for backyards, driveways, or any large, flat paved area.

What You’ll Need:

1. A Flat Surface: A concrete patio, a wide driveway, or a quiet cul-de-sac can work. The surface doesn’t have to be perfect, but the flatter and smoother it is, the better the ball will bounce.
2. Measuring Tape: A 50-foot or 100-foot tape measure is essential for getting the dimensions correct.
3. Marking Material: Chalk, tape, or a temporary line kit.
4. A Portable Pickleball Net: This is the most significant investment for a DIY setup. A good portable net system costs between £100 and £250. Look for one with a sturdy metal frame, a tensioning system to keep the net taut, and a carrying case for easy transport and storage.

Steps for a Backyard Pickleball Court Setup:

1. Measure the Space: Ensure you have at least the minimum recommended footprint of 34 by 64 feet.
2. Mark the Corners: Use your measuring tape to mark the four corners of the 20 by 44-foot playing area.
3. Lay Down the Boundary Lines: Run tape or draw chalk lines to connect the corners, creating the baselines and sidelines.
4. Mark the Non-Volley Zone: Measure 7 feet in from the net on both sides and mark the non-volley lines.
5. Mark the Center Line: Find the midpoint of the baseline (10 feet from the sideline) and run a line from there to the non-volley line. Do this on both sides.
6. Set Up the Net: Assemble your portable net system in the center of the court. Use the center strap to ensure the net height is 34 inches in the middle.

With this setup, you can be playing pickleball in under an hour.

Professional Court Construction

For a permanent, high-performance court, professional construction is the way to go. This is a significant investment but results in a durable, safe, and beautiful playing surface that can add value to your property.

Outdoor Court Surfaces:
The foundation of a great court is its surface. The most common options for outdoor pickleball courts are:

• Concrete: A post-tensioned concrete slab is considered the gold standard. It’s extremely durable and resistant to cracking. The initial cost is higher, but it has a long lifespan and requires minimal maintenance.
• Asphalt: A more affordable option than concrete. An asphalt court is installed similarly to a driveway, with a base layer of crushed stone followed by one or two layers of asphalt. It provides a good playing surface but is more prone to cracking and may need resurfacing every 5-10 years.
• Synthetic Tiles: Interlocking plastic tiles are a popular modular option. They can be installed over an existing concrete or asphalt base. They provide excellent shock absorption, which is easier on the joints, and they drain quickly after rain. The bounce can be slightly different from traditional hard courts.

After the base is installed, the court is typically coated with multiple layers of acrylic surfacing. This includes resurfacer layers to fill voids, color-coating layers for aesthetics and texture, and finally, the painted lines.

Lighting, Fencing, and Other Considerations:

• Lighting: For night play, proper lighting is essential. LED lights are the modern standard, offering bright, even illumination with low energy consumption. Lights should be mounted on tall poles (around 20 feet high) and angled to minimize glare and shadows on the court.
• Fencing: Fencing keeps the ball in play and prevents players from running into hazards. A 10-foot high fence is standard for pickleball courts. Chain-link is the most common and cost-effective material. Adding windscreens to the fence can improve playing conditions on breezy days.
• Seating and Amenities: Consider adding benches for players, shaded areas, and a water fountain to enhance the experience.

Cost to Build a Pickleball Court (UK Estimates)

The cost to build a pickleball court in the UK can vary widely based on site conditions, materials, and labor.

• DIY Temporary Court: The main cost is the portable net, so you can expect to spend between £100 and £300 for a complete setup with tape and chalk.
• Adding Lines to an Existing Court: If you already have a suitable surface like a tennis court, the cost to have a professional paint pickleball lines is relatively low, typically ranging from £250 to £600, depending on the number of courts.
• Professional Court Resurfacing and Conversion: Converting a worn-out tennis court into multiple pickleball courts by resurfacing and repainting can cost between £5,000 and £10,000.
• Building a New Court from Scratch: This is the most expensive option. A complete construction project, including excavation, base installation, surfacing, fencing, and lighting, can range from £20,000 to £50,000 or more per court.
  • Asphalt Base: £15,000 – £30,000
  • Concrete Base: £25,000 – £45,000+
  • Fencing: £5,000 – £8,000
  • Lighting: £7,000 – £15,000

These are general estimates, and it’s crucial to get quotes from local contractors for an accurate price.

How Many Pickleball Courts Fit on a Tennis Court?

One of the main drivers of pickleball’s growth is the ease of converting existing tennis courts. A standard tennis court (60 by 120 feet) provides ample space for multiple pickleball courts. This allows clubs to serve many more players in the same footprint.

There are three common conversion layouts:

1. Two Pickleball Courts: This is a comfortable layout that provides plenty of out-of-bounds space for each court. You place one pickleball court on each side of the tennis net. The tennis net remains in place, and you simply lower it to the correct pickleball height (34 inches at the center). You then set up temporary pickleball lines. This is a great “dual-use” option where the court can easily switch between tennis and pickleball.
2. Four Pickleball Courts (Side-by-Side): This is the most efficient layout for maximizing player capacity. To do this, the tennis net is removed. Four pickleball courts are placed horizontally across the tennis court. You will need four portable pickleball nets. This layout is tighter, with less space between the sidelines of adjacent courts, but it is the standard for dedicated pickleball conversions.
3. Three Pickleball Courts: This is a less common but viable option that offers a compromise between space and capacity.

Converting a tennis court is a cost-effective strategy for clubs and parks. By painting permanent pickleball lines in a different color (e.g., yellow pickleball lines on a green tennis court with white lines), you can create multi-sport courts that cater to both communities.

Can You Play Pickleball on Other Courts?

While a dedicated hard court is ideal, the adaptable nature of pickleball means you can play it almost anywhere. Here’s a look at playing pickleball on various surfaces and court types.

• Tennis Courts: (Excellent) As discussed, a tennis court is the perfect canvas for pickleball. With a portable net and temporary lines, you can be playing in minutes. The surface is ideal, and the existing enclosure is a bonus.
• Badminton Courts: (Very Good) An indoor badminton court is almost perfectly sized for pickleball. Since a doubles badminton court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, the dimensions are identical. You just need to lower the net or use a portable pickleball net. This makes gymnasiums with badminton courts a prime location for indoor pickleball.
• Padel Courts: (Not Ideal) A padel court is surrounded by walls that are part of the game. While you could technically play pickleball inside one, the walls would interfere with the game, and the court is longer than a pickleball court. It’s not a recommended conversion.
• Squash Courts: (Poor) A squash court is too small and is enclosed on all four sides. The ball’s bounce and the game’s rules are completely different. It is not suitable for pickleball.
• Astroturf or Synthetic Turf: (Acceptable for Casual Play) You can play pickleball on Astroturf, but the experience will be different. The ball will have a much lower and less consistent bounce. It can be a fun, casual game, but it won’t feel like “real” pickleball. It’s also more likely to cause skidding and can be tough on the ankles if you’re not careful.
• Grass: (Casual Fun Only) Playing pickleball on grass is possible for a bit of backyard fun, but it’s far from ideal. The ball will not bounce predictably, if at all. You’ll mostly be hitting the ball out of the air. Think of it as a variation of the game, not a substitute for a proper court.
• Beach Courts (Sand Pickleball): (A Fun Variation) Beach pickleball is a growing trend. You can set up a portable net on the sand and play. Obviously, the ball won’t bounce, so the game becomes entirely about volleys. It’s a fantastic workout and a fun, social way to play, but it’s a different sport altogether, similar to the relationship between indoor volleyball and beach volleyball.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Pickleball Courts

The choice between an indoor and outdoor court depends on your climate, budget, and playing preferences.

Outdoor Pickleball Courts

• Pros:
  • Less expensive to build.
  • Allows for play in the fresh air and sunshine.
  • Can often utilize existing outdoor spaces like tennis courts or parking lots.
• Cons:
  • Play is dependent on the weather (rain, wind, extreme heat, or cold).
  • Surfaces require more maintenance due to exposure to the elements.
  • Sun glare can be a factor during certain times of the day.

Indoor Pickleball Courts

• Pros:
  • Year-round play, regardless of the weather.
  • Controlled environment with no wind or sun to affect the game.
  • Surfaces (like gym floors or dedicated synthetic floors) last longer.
• Cons:
  • Significantly more expensive to build a dedicated indoor facility.
  • Lighting is a critical and costly factor.
  • Ceiling height can be a limitation (a minimum of 18-20 feet is recommended).

The ideal surface for an indoor court is either a traditional wood gymnasium floor or a cushioned synthetic surface designed for sports. Both provide excellent shock absorption and a consistent ball bounce.

Also Read Pickleball Equipment Guide: Best Paddles, Balls & Shoes for Every Player?

Common Mistakes When Setting Up a Court

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your court is safe, compliant, and enjoyable to play on.

1. Incorrect Dimensions: Double- and triple-check your measurements before painting permanent lines. A common error is making the non-volley zone too large or too small. Remember, it’s 7 feet from the net to the back of the kitchen line.
2. Insufficient Out-of-Bounds Space: Skimping on the runoff area is a safety hazard. Players need room to chase down balls without crashing into a fence, wall, or another court. Stick to the recommended minimum of 34 by 64 feet for the total footprint.
3. Using the Wrong Surface Materials: Don’t paint a court on slick, untextured concrete. A proper court surface has a slight grit to provide traction and control the ball’s bounce. Using house paint instead of acrylic sport surfacing will result in a slippery, non-durable finish.
4. Poor Lighting Placement: For courts with lights, incorrect placement can create harsh shadows or blinding glare for players. Consult with a lighting professional to design a layout that provides even, consistent illumination across the entire playing area.
5. Using a Cheap or Incorrect Net: A sagging, flimsy net that isn’t at regulation height can ruin the game. Invest in a quality portable net with a tensioning system or install permanent posts and a durable net for a dedicated court. Ensure it is 36 inches at the sides and 34 inches at the center.

FAQs About Pickleball Courts

How big is a pickleball court in square feet?
The playing area of a pickleball court is 880 square feet (44 ft x 20 ft). However, the total recommended space including the out-of-bounds area is at least 2,176 square feet (64 ft x 34 ft).

Can you put a pickleball court in your backyard?
Yes, absolutely! If you have a flat area of at least 34 by 64 feet, you can set up a pickleball court. A DIY backyard pickleball court setup using a portable net and temporary lines is a popular and affordable option.

How much does it cost to paint pickleball lines on a tennis court?
In the UK, hiring a professional to add permanent pickleball lines to an existing tennis court typically costs between £250 and £600. The price depends on the number of courts you want to line and the condition of the surface.

What’s the minimum space needed for a pickleball court?
While the playing court itself is 20 by 44 feet, the minimum recommended total space is 30 feet wide by 60 feet long. However, for better safety and playability, 34 by 64 feet is the preferred minimum.

Is a pickleball court the same size as a badminton court?
They are very similar. A doubles badminton court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, which are the exact dimensions of a pickleball court. The only major difference is the net height.

Conclusion

Understanding the details of a pickleball court is the foundation for enjoying this incredible sport. From the precise dimensions and markings to the nuances of different playing surfaces, every element contributes to the game’s unique character.

The versatility of the pickleball court is a key reason for its widespread adoption. The ability to set up a temporary court in a matter of minutes or to convert a single tennis court into a hub for four pickleball games has allowed the sport to grow exponentially. For clubs, schools, and communities in the UK, adding pickleball courts is a smart investment that promotes health, social connection, and fun for all ages.

Whether you are chalking lines in your driveway for a family game or planning a professional-grade facility, the information in this guide provides the blueprint for success. So measure out that space, grab a net, and get ready to join the pickleball revolution. The court is waiting.