The Boundary Rules in Pickleball

“A good decision is based on knowledge and not on numbers.”– Plato

In pickleball, knowing when a ball is "in" or "out" is crucial for fair play and ensuring the game runs smoothly. One of the most common points of confusion is determining whether a ball that lands near or on the boundary lines during regular play or a serve is considered "in" or "out." Understanding these rules helps eliminate disputes and keeps the game moving efficiently. This blog will cover the rules for when a ball hits the outside boundary lines during play and what happens during a serve when the ball hits the centerline or non-volley line.

The General Rule of the Lines: If It Hits the Line, It’s In

One of the most important things to remember in pickleball is that any ball that lands on a boundary line is considered in. This applies to all boundary lines on the court, whether it’s the baseline, sidelines, or centerline. The ball does not need to land completely inside the court to be considered in play—if any part of the ball touches the line, it’s considered "in."

Here’s how this works:

• During Play: If the ball touches any part of the outside boundary lines (baseline or sidelines), it is considered in, regardless of how small a portion of the ball touches the line. Even if the ball clips the very edge of the line, it's a legal shot, and play continues.
• During a Serve: When serving, the same rule applies. If the ball lands on the centerline, it’s considered in. Additionally, if the ball lands on the non-volley line (kitchen line) during the serve, it is out, but if it hits the baseline, sidelines, or centerline, it is in.

The Outside Boundary Lines During Play

The outside boundary lines on a pickleball court include the baseline (back boundary) and the sidelines (side boundaries). During a rally, if the ball hits any part of these lines, it is considered in play. This can sometimes be difficult to call in the heat of a fast-paced match, but here are a few tips:

• Sidelines: If the ball lands on the left or right sidelines and any portion touches the line, it’s in. The shot is valid, and play continues.
• Baseline: The same rule applies to the baseline. As long as the ball touches any part of the baseline, even if it seems like it’s just grazing the line, it’s considered in.

Calling “In” or “Out” on a Serve

The serve in pickleball comes with its own specific set of rules, especially when it comes to the non-volley line (kitchen line) and the centerline.

• Centerline on the Serve: When you serve the ball, if it touches the centerline that divides the left and right service courts, the ball is in. The centerline is part of the legal service area, so a ball that hits the line is a good serve.
• Non-Volley Line (Kitchen Line) on the Serve: Unlike the centerline, if the ball lands on the non-volley line during a serve, it is out. The kitchen is a restricted area during a serve, and any serve that hits the kitchen line is considered a fault. The rule ensures that players are not serving too close to the net, giving their opponents a fair chance to return the ball.
• Baseline and Sidelines on the Serve: Like during regular play, if the serve touches any part of the baseline or sidelines, it is considered in. These boundary lines are part of the court and are included in the legal service area.

How to Make Accurate Calls

Making accurate line calls is important in any game of pickleball to maintain fairness and ensure sportsmanship. While referees often handle these calls in professional or tournament play, recreational games require players to make their own line judgments. Here are a few tips to ensure accurate calls:

1. Be Honest and Objective: If you’re unsure whether the ball is in or out, the benefit of the doubt should go to your opponent. Err on the side of fairness, and make the call that you would want your opponent to make for you.
2. Use Your Teammate: In doubles play, communicate with your partner on close calls. If you or your partner is in a better position to see whether the ball landed in or out, trust each other’s judgment.
3. Don’t Delay Calls: Make your call as soon as possible. The longer you wait to call the ball in or out, the more likely it is to disrupt the flow of the game and lead to confusion.

Why the Lines Matter

Understanding and respecting the boundary lines ensures that the game is fair for both players. Pickleball is a game of strategy, and sometimes hitting the lines intentionally can be an effective way to keep your opponent on their toes. Knowing the rules about when a ball is in or out allows you to play more confidently and make strategic decisions about shot placement.

Game Point

In pickleball, the lines matter—and so does understanding the rules that govern when a ball is "in" or "out." Whether during regular play or while serving, knowing the importance of boundary lines and the specific rules around the centerline and kitchen line can elevate your game. The next time you're on the court, remember: if the ball touches the line, it’s in—except on the kitchen line during a serve, where it’s always out.

See you on the courts!