Building a Pickleball Court: What You Need to Know

Building a pickleball court is a fantastic way to bring the game closer to home, enhance local facilities, or support growing demand in clubs and communities. Whether it’s a private court in your garden or a multi-court setup at a leisure centre, understanding the essentials of court construction will ensure a professional and enjoyable playing experience.

What Size is a Pickleball Court?

A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (approximately 6.1 metres by 13.4 metres). This size is used for both singles and doubles play.

To allow for safe movement and overrun space around the court, the recommended total playing area is 30 feet by 60 feet (about 9.1 metres by 18.3 metres). This gives players enough room to serve, chase shots and move safely during play.

So in short:

Total area with run-off: 30 ft x 60 ft (9.1 m x 18.3 m)

Court size: 20 ft x 44 ft (6.1 m x 13.4 m)

Key Components

Non-volley zone (kitchen): 7 feet from the net on both sides.
Service courts: Divided by a centreline and extending from the kitchen to the baseline.
Net height: 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the centre.

Proper court orientation (north-south) helps minimise sun interference during play.

Surface and Materials

Choosing the right surface is crucial for safety, performance, and maintenance. Common options include:

Asphalt or concrete: Durable and cost-effective for permanent installations.
Acrylic sport surfacing: Provides cushioning, reduces glare, and enhances grip.
Multi-sport modular tiles: Easy to install and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Ensure the surface is level, well-drained, and free of cracks or debris.

Fencing and Lighting

Fencing keeps the ball within bounds and ensures safety. Recommended fencing:

Height: 10 feet for competitive courts.
Material: Chain-link or welded mesh.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for evening play. LED floodlights with minimal glare and uniform coverage are ideal.

Net Systems and Posts

Invest in a high-quality net system that meets official regulations. Look for:

Adjustable tension mechanisms.
Weather-resistant posts.
Centre straps to maintain the correct net height.

Portable systems are available for temporary setups or shared spaces.

Court Accessories

Enhance your court with optional but valuable accessories:

Benches and seating for players and spectators.
Scoreboards for competitive matches.
Ball holders to reduce interruptions.
Windscreens for outdoor courts in breezy areas.

Cost Estimates for Building a Pickleball Court

A UK‑based article states that the surface alone (concrete, asphalt or modular) might cost around £35‑£50 per m² for concrete, or slightly less for asphalt. edwardssports.co.uk
One domestic guide (US data) shows that building a full court from scratch can range from £5,000 to £25,000‑£30,000) depending on site conditions.
UK industry commentary notes demand is growing and cost is “around half of the £45,000‑£75,000 price tag of a padel court”. Financial Times
Approximate UK ballpark: For a dedicated 20 ft × 44 ft (6.1 m × 13.4 m) court with run‑off, expect £10,000‑£30,000+ depending on materials, site prep, fencing, lighting etc.

Typical Costs

The cost of building a pickleball court varies based on location, surface type, and extra features. On average:

Basic outdoor court: £8,000 – £20,000
Indoor conversion: £5,000 – £15,000
Multi-court facilities: £20,000 and up

Factor in ongoing maintenance and upgrades for long-term use.

Cost Influencing Factors

Site preparation (excavation, drainage, leveling) and ground quality
Surface material: concrete > asphalt > modular/tiles
Additional works: fencing, lighting, nets, windscreens, seating
Whether conversion of existing surface (cheaper) or new build (costlier)
Location (urban vs rural UK) labour & material costs

UK‑based Court Construction Companies

The Pickleball Court Construction Company – Nationwide UK installer for pickleball courts, including private, leisure and school facilities.

Rubb UK – Specialises in covered and flexible pickleball court structures for year-round play.

PickleCourts – Offers design, construction, fencing, and maintenance services for pickleball courts across the UK.

Tennis Court Construction Kent – Builds and converts pickleball courts (with fencing and lighting) in Kent and East Sussex.

✅ What You Might Quote When Speaking to Installers

When you go to install your court, you may expect something like:

New dedicated court (20 ft × 44 ft + run‑off) in the UK: somewhere in the region of £20,000–£50,000+, depending on surface, fencing, lighting, etc. (Comparable to UK guide data)
Conversion of an existing surface (tennis court or asphalt pad) may cost less — one guide states conversions may cost £5,000–£10,000 depending on scale. pickleballrackets.co.uk
Timeline: assume lead‑time of ~3 to 4 weeks (site‑prep, surfacing, line‑marking, equipment) when using a specialist UK installer.

Lead Times

According to a specialist UK installer, many courts can be built and ready within 3‑4 weeks. The Pickleball Construction Company
Colour‑coated surface builds may require at least 4 weeks after surfacing to cure and finish.
Typical timeline: Site survey → groundwork → surfacing → line marking & equipment → playable court in ~1 month (assuming no major delays).

Planning & Permissions (UK) for Building a Pickleball Court

Determine if you’re converting an existing surface (less likely to need full permission) or building anew (may trigger planning consent).
When new build or commercial use: consult local authority regarding noise, lighting, drainage, access. One UK article emphasises checking with the council. edwardssports.co.uk
For domestic/private use: many courts fall under permitted development if within garden/grounds, but always check specific local rules.
Orientation: ideally north‑south to reduce sun glare. One installer states orientation is considered in UK builds. The Pickleball Construction Company

Actionable Checklist for Installers/Clubs

Survey the area: Confirm space (including run‑off), slope, ground conditions.
Choose surface: Decide on concrete, asphalt or modular tiles with cost implications.
Budget properly: Include site prep, surfacing, equipment, lighting/fencing if needed.
Check permissions: Engage with local council early if new build or public facility.
Book lead time: For turnkey installation allow ~3‑4 weeks minimum.
Plan maintenance: Surface material affects long‑term upkeep (resurfacing etc).

Conclusion on Building a Pickleball Court

Building a pickleball court is a valuable investment in community sport and active lifestyles. With proper planning and quality materials, your court can offer years of enjoyment and help grow the sport across the UK. For more guidance, resources, and supplier directories, explore Dink Quest Directory — your hub for everything pickleball in the UK.