Many new players ask: “Is the line in or out in pickleball?” It is a common question. Understanding this rule helps you play better. It also helps you make fair calls during the game.
Basic Rule: When is a Ball Considered “In”?
In pickleball, a ball is in if it touches any part of the line. This includes sidelines, baselines, and centerlines. Even a small touch means the ball is good. This is true for most shots in the game.
So, if the ball lands on the line, do not call it out. It counts as in. This rule is simple and clear for all players.
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Special Rule for the Kitchen Line on a Serve
There is one exception. When you serve, the ball must not touch the kitchen line. If the serve hits the kitchen line, it is a fault. The serve is out. You lose your chance or a point may be given to the other team.
The kitchen line is the line that marks the non-volley zone. This zone is close to the net. On a serve, the ball must land past this kitchen line, inside the service area.
Summary Of Serve Rules
| Serve Landing Spot | Result |
|---|---|
| Lands inside opposite service box, not touching kitchen line | Valid Serve (In) |
| Touches or lands on the kitchen line | Fault (Out) |
| Lands outside sidelines or baselines | Fault (Out) |
Other Lines and Their Rules
Besides the kitchen line on a serve, all other lines are treated the same. If the ball touches any part of a line, it is in.
- Sidelines: If the ball hits the sideline, it is in.
- Baselines: If the ball hits the baseline, it is in.
- Centerline (on serve): If the ball touches the centerline but is inside the sideline and baseline, it is in.
This rule makes it easier to judge line calls. Lines are part of the court. So, touching the line means the ball is on the court.
Why Are Lines Counted as “In”?
Counting lines as in helps avoid confusion. It makes the game fair and clear. Players do not argue over small touches. It also matches rules in other racquet sports like tennis and badminton.
What Happens If You Are Not Sure?
Sometimes, it is hard to see if the ball touched the line. In this case, the standard rule is to give the ball the benefit of the doubt. Call the ball in if you are not sure.
This rule helps keep the game friendly and fair. It avoids too many arguments. Remember, pickleball is a fun sport!
Communication Between Partners
In doubles, partners need to talk about line calls. If they disagree, they must discuss to make a clear decision. Good communication helps avoid fights and keeps the game smooth.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Calling the ball out when it touched the line.
- Not knowing the kitchen line rule on a serve.
- Not giving the benefit of the doubt on unclear calls.
- Not talking to your partner about line calls.
Avoid these mistakes to play better and be a good player.
Quick Guide: Is the Line In or Out?
| Situation | Line Counted As |
|---|---|
| Ball touches any court line (sideline, baseline, centerline) during play | In |
| Ball touches kitchen line on a serve | Out |
| Ball lands inside the service box during serve (not touching kitchen line) | In |
| Unclear calls | Give benefit of doubt – In |
Why These Rules Matter
These rules keep pickleball fair and fun. Players know when to call “in” or “out”. It helps avoid arguments. Everyone enjoys the game more.
Learning and following these rules makes you a better player. You can play with confidence and fairness.
Summary
To answer the question: Is the line in or out in pickleball? Most lines count as in. Except for the kitchen line on a serve. If the ball touches the kitchen line during serve, it is out.
For all other shots, if the ball touches any line, it is in. If you are not sure, give the ball the benefit of the doubt. Talk with your partner to agree on calls.
These simple rules help keep pickleball fun and fair for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Line Count As In Or Out In Pickleball?
In pickleball, the ball is in if it touches any line except the kitchen line on a serve. Serves hitting the kitchen line count as out. All other shots touching any line are in. Give the benefit of the doubt if unclear.
Is The Kitchen Line In On Serve?
No, the kitchen line is out on a serve in pickleball. Serves touching it result in a fault.
Is The Middle Line In Pickleball Out?
The middle line in pickleball is in if the ball touches it during play. On a serve, hitting the kitchen line is out.
Is A Ball That Hits The Line In Or Out?
A pickleball ball is in if it touches any line except on a serve hitting the kitchen line. A serve touching the kitchen line is out. For all other shots, touching the line counts as in. Always give the benefit of the doubt for unclear calls.