Pickleball Canada is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with the Inclusive Place of Pickleball (IPOP) and the release of the Pickleball Canada Facilityh Guidebook. Through collaboration, IPOP will provide leadership and expertise to support Pickleball Canada’s national efforts in facility planning and development. The partnership is designed to accelerate the creation of high-quality pickleball infrastructure nationwide, giving communities of all sizes greater access to safe, sustainable, and inclusive places to play.
The Guidebook serves as a step-by-step guide to help individuals, associations, and organizations plan and open new pickleball facilities, addressing key questions such as whether to lease, buy, or build, and outlining the fundamentals for successfully operating a pickleball venue in Canada.
Court Set Up
Additonal Resources
Lines
Lines can be made with chalk, tape, paint, chalk, or even crayons, but generally tape is the best option for DIY.
Surface
A high-quality playing surface is one of the most important elements of a pickleball court. For permanent outdoor courts, a stable asphalt or concrete base with a professionally applied acrylic sport surface is recommended to provide consistent ball bounce, player traction, and long-term durability. Indoor courts should utilize sport flooring designed to provide a safe, non-slip playing surface while maintaining consistent performance. Facilities should work with experienced sport court contractors to ensure the surface is designed specifically for sport court or pickleball and local climate conditions.
Netting
The net can be made out of any mesh material that will not allow a ball to pass through. It should be at least 21 feet 9 inches long, stretching from post to post; from the bottom edge to the top, it should be at least 30 inches wide. The posts should be 22 feet apart, and no more than 3 inches in diameter. Once the net is suspended from the posts across the center of the court, it should be 36 inches tall at the sidelines, and 34 inches tall in the center. The top edge of the net should have a cord or cable and it should be covered with a 2-inch tape.
Court Building and Fencing
Proper court design and construction are essential to creating a safe, durable, and enjoyable pickleball facility. Whether developing new courts or converting existing tennis courts, careful planning will help ensure the facility meets the needs of players while providing long-term value for clubs and municipalities.
Court Construction Recommendations
- Construct courts on a stable asphalt or concrete base designed to minimize cracking and ensure proper drainage.
- Apply a high-quality acrylic sport surface specifically designed for pickleball or multi-sport use to provide consistent ball bounce and player traction.
- Ensure adequate spacing around each court to allow safe player movement and spectator access. Additional space between courts is recommended for larger facilities and tournament play.
- Design the facility with accessibility in mind, including barrier-free pathways, viewing areas, and access to amenities wherever possible.
- For outdoor courts, consider local climate conditions, including frost, drainage, and snow removal requirements, during the design and construction process.
- Work with experienced sport court contractors
Fencing Recommendations
- Install perimeter fencing to improve player safety, contain balls, and define the playing area.
- A fence height of approximately 3.0–3.7 metres (10–12 feet) is generally recommended around outdoor pickleball facilities, with 1.2–1.5 metres (4–5 feet) divider fencing between adjacent courts where appropriate.
- Use durable, weather-resistant chain-link or equivalent fencing materials suitable for Canadian climates.
- Include appropriately located access gates that provide safe and accessible entry to the courts.
- Where facilities are located near residential areas, consider incorporating wind screens or acoustic fencing to improve the playing environment and help reduce the impact of noise on neighbouring properties.
Court Acoustics
As pickleball continues to grow across Canada, it is important to consider noise mitigation when planning new or upgraded facilities, particularly near residential areas. Facilities should consider incorporating acoustic fencing, sound barriers, landscaping, and quieter equipment where appropriate, while engaging with local municipalities and neighbouring communities during the planning process to help support positive community relationships.
Acoustic Equitment
Acountsic Reduction
Court Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for player safety, ball visibility, and an enjoyable pickleball experience. Whether developing indoor or outdoor courts, facilities should work with a reputable sports lighting company experienced in designing pickleball and other court sport facilities. A properly designed lighting system should provide consistent illumination across the playing surface while minimizing shadows, glare, and light spill, ensuring optimal playing conditions for both recreational and competitive play.