We’ve all been there: the ball hits the line and everyone freezes. Was it in, or was it out? 

According to the 2025 USA Pickleball Rulebook, a player must see a space between the line and the ball at contact to call it out. 

Many social media posts tell us that it’s about perspective, and yes, that is a factor; however, if you’re unable to see a space, it’s best to call it in.

Official Rules

The most obvious rule is if the ball lands outside the court, it’s out. Easy peasy.

Where it gets confusing is on a serve. A served ball must clear the kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) AND its lines to be considered in. If the served ball touches any part of the kitchen line, it’s out.

After that initial served ball, the ball must land outside of the court to be considered out. A ball landing on any court line is in.

Courteous Rules

When playing doubles, if one player calls out and the partner calls in, it will be considered in.

All out calls must be promptly signaled by voice and/or hand signal. The hand signal for “out” is extending your arm straight above your head, palm open. The hand signal for “in” is extending your arm straight toward the court (parallel to the ground) and pointing to the spot where the ball landed.

Any ball that cannot be called out will be considered in. 

The call is made by the players on their side of the court. If you’re not sure, favour your opponents. No one wants to play with someone that is unfairly calling the shots.

Remember, perspective matters. If you can’t see a gap, it’s in. Play fair, play hard, and remember to stay out of the kitchen!