Is your dream of having your own basketball court, pickleball space, or multi-sport setup finally coming true? If you’re beginning the process of building a court, ensure you properly plan before you start digging up your yard. Rushing into construction without doing your due diligence can turn your game-changing investment into a costly regret. Here are the top mistakes to avoid when building a backyard court. 

1. Skipping the Site Evaluation

Not all backyards are created equal. Ignoring slope, drainage, soil conditions, and sun exposure can lead to structural issues or unusable space. Avoid root-heavy zones and areas prone to flooding. You may also want to have a professional evaluate whether your site is suitable for a court, so you can avoid any initial mistakes. Ensure you have a balance between sunlight and shade to benefit spectators and players. 

2. Ignoring the Design

Think about the type of court you need and consider the lines, colors, and logos you want. Ensure the design meets your needs and invest in professional services to prevent any flaws or mistakes. Make sure you have a mockup before you begin construction. 

3. Ignoring Local Zoning Laws and Permits

Before you break ground, check local building codes and homeowner association rules. Many areas have restrictions on court size, fencing height, lighting, and noise. Failing to get the proper permits can result in fines or forced removal. 

4. Choosing the Wrong Court Size

Building too small to save money or too big for the available space can cause issues. A court that is too cramped will be hard to enjoy, and an oversized court may overwhelm your yard and put you way out of budget. 

Choose the correct dimensions based on how you plan to use the space. Make sure you also plan for future growth and have enough space for players and spectators, which is about three feet around the perimeter. 

5. Poor Sub-Base Preparation

The sub-base is the foundation of your court. While one of the most important parts, many make the mistake of overlooking it. A poorly compacted or uneven sub-base can cause surface cracks and dips, and lead to drainage problems and standing water. Investing in proper excavation and base materials pays off long-term. 

6. Using Low-Quality Surface Materials

You may be tempted to cut costs by using cheaper surfacing options, but low-quality materials wear out fast and may not provide the right traction for bounce. Choose materials designed specifically for sports use and suited to your local climate. Note that asphalt, concrete, and other materials provide varying levels of playability, safety, and maintenance. 

7. Lack of Drainage Planning

Standing water can ruin a court’s surface and make it unsafe to play on. Ensure your court either has natural drainage, proper grading, perimeter drains, or a sloped design (one inch every 10 feet in one direction) to keep water away from the playing surface. Slope helps the court remain playable even after rain. 

8. Not Thinking About Lighting and Accessories

If you plan on playing in the evenings, ensure you have proper lighting. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until after the court is built — install conduit and plan for lighting early. Weather-resistant, glare-free LED lighting can evenly illuminate the court without blinding players.

In addition, plan for fencing, adjustable hoops, nets, benches, and any safety padding needed for your chosen sports. Consider coolers, benches, and trash baskets for spectators. 

9. DIY-ing Without the Right Experience

While building your own court may sound like a cost-saving, fun project, mistakes in layout, surfacing, or foundation work lead to expensive fixes in the future. Consult with an experienced court builder or hire professionals to build your court.

10. Neglecting Long-Term Maintenance Needs

All courts, even high-quality ones, require maintenance to remain in the best shape. If you choose materials or a layout that is hard to clean or prone to weather damage, you’ll spend more time and money than you expect maintaining your court. 

Be realistic about upkeep and select features that fit your lifestyle. Choose low-maintenance materials, resurface your court when needed, and schedule regular cleanings and inspections.

Build a Backyard Court the Right Way

A backyard court is an exciting investment, so make sure you avoid common pitfalls to ensure it stays functional, safe, and lasts for years. From proper site planning and quality materials to thoughtful design and future maintenance, every decision matters. By steering clear of these common mistakes and working with professionals, you can create a court that adds lasting value to your home and becomes a place for fun, fitness, and family time.