Court, net and ball
FIVB · 2025–2028Court dimensions, playing zones, net height and ball standards, with additional requirements for FIVB competitions.
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Rules 1–3 — Dimensions and boundariesRules 1–2 — Zones, lighting and netRules 2–3 — Equipment standardsRules 1–3 — Dimensions and boundaries
The court measures 18 × 9 m, with boundary lines included in those dimensions. Lines are 5 cm wide. The centre line divides the court into equal halves; its entire width belongs to both sides. The rear edge of each attack line lies 3 m from the centre-line axis. The front zone continues beyond the sidelines to the end of the free zone.
Ordinarily, the free zone must extend at least 3 m on every side, with at least 7 m of unobstructed space above the playing surface. For FIVB, World and Official Competitions, these requirements increase to 5 m beside the sidelines, 6.5 m behind the end lines and 12.5 m overhead. The floor must be flat, uniform and safe.
Rules 1–2 — Zones, lighting and net
The service zone is 9 m wide behind the end line and extends to the back of the free zone. Substitutions take place between the extended attack lines on the scorer’s side. The Libero replacement zone runs from the extended attack line to the end line on the bench side. Diagram 2 illustrates the court; Diagram 3 illustrates the net.
The minimum temperature is 10°C and lighting should be at least 300 lux. FIVB, World and Official Competitions require at least 2000 lux measured 1 m above the playing surface, and their maximum temperature is determined by the technical delegate. Net height at the centre is 2.43 m for men and 2.24 m for women. Height over both sidelines must be equal and no more than 2 cm above the official height.
Rules 2–3 — Equipment standards
The net is 1 m wide, with a permitted variation of 3 cm, and 9.50–10 m long. Antennae extend 80 cm above it and mark the sides of the crossing space. Posts must be smooth and safe; ordinary placement is 0.50–1.00 m outside the sidelines. In FIVB, World and Official Competitions, posts are 1 m outside and padded.
The ball has a circumference of 65–67 cm, weighs 260–280 g and has an internal pressure of 0.30–0.325 kg/cm². All match balls must share the same specifications. FIVB-approved balls are required in the competitions listed by the rules unless FIVB agrees otherwise. FIVB, World and Official Competitions use 5 balls and 6 ball retrievers.
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