Pickleball kitchen rules (non-volley zone): where to stand, what you can hit, common faults
The pickleball kitchen is 7 feet (2.13 m) from the net. You cannot volley while touching the kitchen or its line, including momentum after the shot. Bounced balls can be played from the kitchen.
The kitchen (officially the non-volley zone) is pickleball’s signature rule. It stops players from smashing at the net and creates the soft dinking game the sport is known for.
Where the kitchen is
- 7 feet (about 2.13 m) from the net, across the full width, on both sides.
- The line is part of the kitchen. Touching it counts as being in.
The main rule: no volleys in the kitchen
You may not volley (hit the ball out of the air) if, while hitting:
- you are standing in the kitchen, or
- your foot touches the kitchen line, or
- anything you are wearing or carrying (including your paddle) touches the kitchen.
The momentum fault
If your momentum after a volley carries you into the kitchen or onto its line, it is still a fault, even if the ball went dead first. It happens most when you stand right at the line and lunge.
If you end up in the kitchen, you must re-establish both feet outside before volleying again.
What you can do
- Enter the kitchen at any time.
- Play balls that have bounced from inside the kitchen. That is dinking.
- Reach over the kitchen with your paddle to volley, as long as your feet and body stay out.
Tips for beginners
- Stand about half a step behind the line when waiting at the net.
- When you stretch for a ball, stop your feet after the shot.
- Not sure you can volley safely? Let it bounce and dink.
Read more: pickleball rules for beginners.
FAQ
How big is the pickleball kitchen?
The kitchen extends 7 feet (about 2.13 m) from the net across the full width of the court, on both sides. The kitchen line is part of the kitchen.
Can you stand in the kitchen?
Yes. You can enter the kitchen at any time. You just cannot volley (hit a ball that has not bounced) while touching the kitchen or its line.
Is it a fault to step into the kitchen after a volley?
Yes. If the momentum of your volley carries you into the kitchen or onto its line, it is a fault even if the ball is already dead.
Can you hit a bounced ball in the kitchen?
Yes. Once the ball has bounced, you can play it from inside the kitchen.