Rising Interest in Pickleball Might Affect Your HOA

Pickleball, the rapidly growing paddle sport, is infiltrating community associations. Unfortunately, this newfound popularity has also brought some challenges, mainly related to the "pok-pok" noise generated when the paddle hits the ball.

In recent years, pickleball has seen a meteoric rise. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States, with over 36.5 million players and 10,320 courts. This surge in popularity is not without reason. Pickleball is not just enjoyable to play, but it also boasts a low barrier to entry. It's easy to learn, inexpensive, and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect sport for community engagement and fostering an active lifestyle.

Many community associations have eagerly embraced the sport, recognizing its potential to encourage an active lifestyle and create a close-knit community. Therefore, associations have installed new courts or repurposed tennis courts for the game. This can positively impact property values, as pickleball is a popular sport that can attract potential buyers or renters. However, this expanding popularity also has its downsides. Unfortunately, building a pickleball court in an HOA community can hurt the quality of life in the neighborhood.

HOA Pickleball Noise

Noise complaints regarding pickleball are common among homeowners in HOAs. The sport, which combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, generates a distinct "pop" sound as the wiffleball hits the paddle. It's even louder as players get immersed in the sport, enthusiastically hitting the ball. To put it into perspective, the noise level of a pickleball game can reach the same levels as a tennis match or more, which can understandably disturb residents, especially those close to the court. Residents living near pickleball courts are citing significant noise disturbances.

As a result, some HOAs are facing lawsuits based on the noise complaints their board members receive. However, Pickleball Legal Consultants—a job title that likely did not exist a decade ago—are being hired to install the appropriate noise-muffling materials for pickleball courts.

Building Pickleball Courts

When building pickleball courts or converting tennis courts, safety and accessibility must be considered. The court should have proper lighting and fencing to ensure residents remain safe while playing the sport. Proper ventilation is equally paramount, as the heat and exercise can cause lightheadedness or fainting spells.

As for accessibility, HOA boards should take both the Fair Housing Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act into account. Pickleball is a suitable sport for persons with mobility issues. While the ADA applies to recreational facilities open for general public use, the FHA can also apply to private facilities. Failure to consider these laws when constructing a pickleball court or converting an existing one could result in potential legal consequences. Therefore, consider them when constructing a pickleball court or converting an existing one. Consulting an HOA manager or attorney is always a good idea when in doubt.

The community must also consider the cost of a pickleball court. Converting your tennis court into a pickleball court will cost money, especially if you plan to make it permanent. The process involves finding out how much it will cost and what contractors to hire for the job, which can vary depending on some factors, including the type/scope of modifications and the current condition of your court. However, on average, your HOA should expect to pay somewhere between $3,000 to $10,000 (or more).

HOA Pickleball Rules Suggestions

Establishing a few critical pickleball rules in a homeowners association is essential to maintain a peaceful community.

To ensure fair use among residents, set guidelines for reserving the pickleball courts in advance and make it part of your HOA's guidelines.
Use proper equipment, such as non-marking shoes and approved paddles, to maintain court integrity.
Keep noise levels reasonable during play to respect neighbors and avoid excessive shouting.
Assign specific days and times for court usage and consider making it a key or lock enclosure for entry.
Adhere to guest policies outlined by the HOA, such as limitations on guest numbers or non-resident access.
Prioritize safety and cleanliness by tidying the court area and promptly reporting any maintenance issues to the HOA.

These rules help create an enjoyable pickleball environment that benefits the community.

Strategies to Handle Pickleball Concerns

Community association managers must balance the sport's popularity and its impact on residents' quality of life. Various strategies can be used to address this issue and foster coexistence.

One potential solution involves implementing designated playing hours for pickleball matches. For example, setting specific time frames can reduce noise disruptions while still allowing residents to enjoy the sport. Another approach is soundproofing pickleball courts or incorporating noise-dampening materials to minimize the impact.

Open communication and collaboration will be essential in finding viable solutions. It's crucial for community associations to actively engage pickleball players and residents affected by the noise. By fostering a sense of involvement and understanding their perspectives and concerns, we can work together to reach creative and sustainable resolutions that prioritize the well-being of all residents while supporting the growth of pickleball within communities.

Finally, remember to implement rules governing the use of pickleball courts. To mitigate noise complaints, consider establishing designated playing hours for pickleball. This way, residents will only expect that distinct "pok" sound during certain hours of the day. Another way to limit noise is to use noise-dampening materials to soundproof the court.

Conclusion

The decision to embrace or reject pickleball in HOA communities has many sides. The noise dilemma has sparked plenty of debates across the country, but there are compromises you can make. Boards should consider the governing documents, logistics, safety, accessibility, current conditions, cost, and rules before committing to a decision. Please consider these factors to avoid adding an unnecessary addition to your amenities that costs too much, doesn't get used, or causes problems. It is difficult to dictate whether pickleball is good or bad for an HOA. Ultimately, the choice is what is best for your community.