A standard padel court measures 20 m long by 10 m wide, giving 200 m² of playing area. For safety and access, most venues allow a little extra space around the court (around 231 m² in total).
Standard measurements
Court length and width
A padel court is 20 m long by 10 m wide. Court lines are 5 cm wide. Service lines sit 6.95 m from the net and are split by a centre line. To see how those lines shape the game, check the full padel rules.
Net height
The net runs the full 10 m width. It must be 0.88 m high in the centre and 0.92 m at the posts.
Wall and ceiling height
- Back walls: 4 m high.
- Side walls: either stepped (3 m + 2 m mesh) or a continuous 4 m.
- Clear playing height: at least 6 m; 8 m recommended for new builds.
If you’re thinking of building a court, here’s what it actually costs to build a padel court in the UK.
Surface and setups
Most UK padel courts use synthetic turf, which ensures good bounce and drainage in all weather. The court size is always the same indoors and outdoors, but clear height is key. Allow at least 6 m (ideally 8 m) for proper play.
Outdoor courts often need floodlights and planning permission for tall posts, while indoor courts require good lighting and ventilation for consistent conditions.
For beginners, these dimensions also make sense once you know how to play padel
FAQ
What are the official padel court dimensions?
A padel court is 20 m long and 10 m wide, the same for club and competition play under International Padel Federation rules.
How much space should I allow around the court?
At least 0.5 m around the court for safety, with extra space for access and equipment. A full single-court setup is about 231 m².
What is the net size?
The net is 10 m wide, 0.88 m high in the middle, and 0.92 m at the ends.
How high are the walls?
Back walls are 4 m. Side walls can be 3 m with mesh above or a full 4 m surround.
What ceiling height is required indoors?
At least 6 m clear height is required; 8 m is recommended for new builds.
How does a padel court compare to a tennis court?
Padel courts are much smaller, about one third the size, making the game faster and more tactical.
Do I need planning permission in the UK?
Yes, especially for new walls and floodlighting. Always check local rules before building.
