The Complete Guide to Pickleball Court Installation

Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, with schools, parks, and recreation centers seeing a surge in demand for dedicated courts. Its broad appeal—across age groups and skill levels—makes it a smart investment for any public or private facility looking to promote physical activity and community engagement.

Whether you're building a standalone court or converting an existing space, thoughtful planning and design are key to ensuring a high-quality, low-maintenance court that serves players for years to come.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about pickleball court installation.

1. Understanding Pickleball Court Dimensions

A standard pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, the same size used for both singles and doubles play. It also includes a non-volley zone (commonly known as "the kitchen") that extends 7 feet on either side of the net.

For outdoor courts, it’s recommended to provide at least 10 feet of clear space behind the baselines and 5 feet on the sides for player movement and safety, bringing the total recommended play area to 30' x 60'.

2. Site Selection and Preparation

When choosing a location for your court, consider:

• Sun orientation: Ideally, courts should run north-south to minimize sun glare.
  
  
• Drainage: A flat site with proper grading ensures that water doesn’t pool on the surface.
  
  
• Accessibility: Courts should be reachable by ADA-compliant paths and close to parking, restrooms, and other amenities.
  
  

If building on existing asphalt or concrete, ensure the surface is even and free of cracks before installation.

3. Choosing the Right Pickleball Court Surface

Selecting the right surfacing material is critical for playability, safety, and maintenance. At Zoom Recreation, we recommend two primary options for outdoor pickleball courts:

Pro-Cushion with Acrylic Surfacing

• A multi-layer system that offers excellent shock absorption and player comfort.
  
  
• Ideal for facilities looking for a professional feel and long-term durability.
  
  
• Acrylic topcoat available in a variety of colors for custom design.
  
  

Modular Tile Surfacing

• Interlocking tiles made of high-impact polypropylene.
  
  
• Offers quick drainage, great traction, and easy maintenance.
  
  
• Damaged tiles can be replaced individually without resurfacing the entire court.
  
  

Both options significantly outperform plain concrete, which can crack over time and be hard on players’ joints.

4. Fencing and Pickleball Court Amenities

To complete the court and ensure player safety, consider the following:

• Fencing: A 10-foot perimeter fence is common to contain balls and create clear court boundaries.
  
  
• Net System: Regulation pickleball nets are 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.
  
  
• Shade Structures: Shade structures for pickleball courts are essential for outdoor courts that are in the direct California or Arizona sun. We have a variety of sun shades that offer suitable protection for players and spectators.

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Benches, shade structures, trash cans, and nearby water access also enhance the overall experience. Our team of pickleball court builders can create a cohesive design that elevates the pickleball experience by incorporating various site amenities.

5. Single vs. Multi-Court Layouts

If you’re building more than one court, spacing is important. Plan for at least 10 feet between courts side-to-side and 8 feet end-to-end to allow for safe movement and reduce crowding.

Multi-court layouts are ideal for schools, HOAs, and city parks hosting leagues, lessons, or tournaments.

6. Pickleball Court Builders

A well-designed court is only as good as its installation. Choosing the right partner for your project ensures the job is done efficiently, safely, and to regulation standards.

Here’s what to look for in a pickleball court builder:

• Experience with sport court construction
  
  
• Knowledge of surfacing options and site preparation
  
  
• Ability to manage permits, grading, and ADA compliance
  
  
• Turnkey project management from start to finish

7. Maintenance and Longevity

With proper materials and installation, a pickleball court can last for many years with minimal upkeep. Basic maintenance includes:

• Regular sweeping or leaf-blowing
  
  
• Occasional pressure washing
  
  
• Repainting lines every few years (for acrylic surfaces)
  
  
• Tile inspection and spot replacement (for modular systems)

7. Pickleball Court Installation Cost

One of the most common questions we hear is: “How much does it cost to install a pickleball court?” 

When it comes to pickleball court installation, costs can vary quite a bit depending on the scope of your project. Whether you're building from the ground up or converting an existing space, there are a number of factors that influence the final price tag—things like site conditions, surface materials, fencing, lighting, and even local regulations.

Every project is unique. What works for a public park or sports facility may look very different from what's needed for a school or recreation center. While it's tempting to search for a one-size-fits-all price online, the reality is that the most accurate way to understand your investment is to speak with a team that specializes in court installations.

Want a better idea of what your project might cost?

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We’re happy to walk you through the options and provide guidance tailored to your goals and budget - Contact us!