Pickleball Rules Explained

Pickleball is a fast growing paddle sport that is easy to learn and fun for players of all ages. While the rules are simple, understanding the basics helps new players feel confident and enjoy the game.

This page provides a general overview of standard pickleball rules commonly used for recreational play. Specific league or tournament rules may vary.

The goal of pickleball is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in a way that cannot be returned legally.

Pickleball can be played as:

• Singles, one player per side
• Doubles, two players per side

A standard pickleball court includes:

• Two service courts on each side
• A centerline dividing the service courts
• A non volley zone near the net, commonly called the kitchen
• A net that is slightly lower than a tennis net

At indoor facilities like PickleBall Bunker, courts are designed for consistent surfaces, lighting, and spacing.

• The serve must be hit underhand
• The paddle must contact the ball below the server’s navel
• The serve is hit diagonally across the court
• The serve must clear the non volley zone
• The server must keep both feet behind the baseline when serving

Only one serve attempt is allowed, except in certain doubles situations.

After the serve:

• The receiving team must let the ball bounce once
• The serving team must also let the return bounce once

After these two bounces, players may volley the ball or play it off the bounce.

This rule helps extend rallies and makes the game more accessible for beginners.

• Games are typically played to 11 points
• A team must win by at least two points
• Only the serving team can score points

In doubles play, both players on a team get the opportunity to serve before the serve changes sides, except at the start of the game.

The non volley zone is the area within seven feet of the net on both sides.

Rules include:

• Players may not volley the ball while standing in the non volley zone
• A volley is defined as hitting the ball before it bounces
• Players may enter the non volley zone to play a ball that has bounced

This rule promotes control and strategy over power.

A fault occurs when:

• The ball is hit out of bounds
• The ball does not clear the net
• A volley is hit from within the non volley zone
• The ball is volleyed before the double bounce rule is satisfied
• The serve is illegal

When a fault occurs, the rally ends and service or points are awarded accordingly.

Singles Play

• Server serves from the right side when their score is even
• Server serves from the left side when their score is odd
   

Doubles Play

• Both teammates serve before the serve changes sides
• Player positioning and communication are important

Pickleball emphasizes sportsmanship and respect. Players are encouraged to:

• Make honest line calls
• Respect opponents and partners
• Communicate clearly during play
• Help create a welcoming environment for new players

Facilities like PickleBall Bunker aim to promote a positive and inclusive pickleball community.

League and tournament play may include additional rules or formats, such as:

• Skill level divisions
• Time based matches
• Bracket or round robin formats

Specific rules will be provided for organized play at PickleBall Bunker.

Pickleball rules are easy to learn and best understood through play. Beginners are encouraged to attend open play sessions, lessons, or clinics to gain confidence and improve their game.

PickleBall Bunker will offer opportunities for players of all skill levels when we open in Spring 2026.