Four walls, a small ball, and countless lines—if you’re new to squash, the court can look more like a puzzle than a playing field.
The first time most beginners step onto a squash court, they notice the maze of red or white lines crisscrossing the floor and walls. It’s not always clear where to stand, how the serve works, or why some balls are “in” and others are “out.” But once you understand the markings and their purpose, the chaos melts into clarity. Those lines aren’t random—they’re the blueprint that keeps squash fast, fair, and tactical.
This guide will walk you through the court layout and markings in squash, explaining what each line means and how it shapes the game. By the end, you’ll not only know where to stand but also how to use the court to your advantage.
1) Dimensions of a Squash Court
A standard singles squash court is:
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Length: 9.75 meters (32 feet)
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Width: 6.4 meters (21 feet)
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Front wall height: 4.57 meters (15 feet)
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Back wall height: 2.13 meters (7 feet)
Doubles courts are slightly wider (7.62 meters or 25 feet), but the markings are similar.
2) Floor Markings
Service Boxes
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Two small squares near the front of the court.
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The server must have one foot fully inside a box during the serve.
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The ball must then land in the opposite back quarter.
Short Line
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A line that runs across the court halfway between the front and back walls.
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It divides the front and back of the court and is essential for serving.
Half-Court Line
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Runs from the short line to the back wall, splitting the back of the court into left and right service areas.
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Used to determine which quarter of the court the serve must land in.
3) Wall Markings
Out Line
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Runs along the very top of the court walls.
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Any ball that touches above this line is out.
Service Line
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Horizontal line across the front wall, about halfway up.
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During a serve, the ball must hit above this line.
Tin
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The lowest boundary on the front wall, usually a metal strip.
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If the ball hits the tin, it’s “down,” and the rally ends.
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Think of it like the “net” in tennis.
4) The T-Position (Unmarked but Crucial)
While not an official marking, the T-position (where the short line and half-court line intersect) is the most important spot on the court. Controlling this central area allows players to reach shots in any direction quickly.
5) How the Markings Shape Play
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Serving: The service boxes, short line, and half-court line dictate where the server stands and where the ball must land.
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Rallies: The tin, out line, and front wall keep shots within playable boundaries.
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Positioning: Players constantly return to the T to cover the court efficiently.
Quick Recap for Beginners
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Serve with one foot in the service box.
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The ball must cross the short line and land in the opposite back quarter.
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Keep shots above the tin and below the out line.
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Control the T for better positioning.
Final Rally
At first glance, a squash court might look like a confusing patchwork of lines and boundaries. But once you understand what they mean, the markings reveal the sport’s structure: where rallies begin, how points are won, and why positioning matters so much.
The court is more than just a playing surface—it’s a strategic map. The service boxes test your precision, the out lines demand control, and the T-position rewards smart movement. Master the layout, and you’ll not only follow the rules but also start using the court as a weapon in your game.
So next time you step onto the court, don’t just see the lines—play with them, around them, and within them. That’s where the real beauty of squash lies.
