Q&A for How to Build a Bocce Ball Court

Artificial turf is optional. You can play on the oyster shell surface. However, if you want to place artificial turf on the court, you must make it the same dimensions as your court: not bigger, not smaller.

You can get most of the materials from your local building supply store, hardware store, and farm supply store. For example, my local RuralKing Farm and Home Store sells crushed oyster shell in 50 lb bags for about $10.

A high end court can cost anywhere from $3000 - $6000. If you make it yourself, you can probably do it for $1000.

Ideally, the court should be as smooth and level as possible. If a court is irregular, it may affect the players' performance and lead to inconsistencies in the game.

To install artificial turf over a compacted gravel base, start by laying the turf and securing the edges with stakes or adhesive. Then, spread silica sand or a recommended infill evenly to weigh it down and stabilize it. Use a broom or brush to work the infill into the turf fibers, ensuring they stand upright, and follow manufacturer guidelines for a durable surface.

Mark the foot line at one end of the 40-foot length, place the 10-foot line at the midpoint along the length for distance measurement, and establish a center line across the 5-foot width to divide the court into two 20-foot halves.

Yes, but you should prepare the ground properly by using landscape fabric or a weed barrier to prevent grass from growing through. Make sure the ground is leveled and compacted before laying the gravel or stones to maintain a smooth playing surface.

Yes. That would offer a similar playing surface but with differences in texture and maintenance. Decomposed granite is coarser and may drain better, which can be beneficial in wet climates. Be sure to compact and level it well for a smooth playing surface, and note that it may require periodic raking to keep it level and free of debris.

You probably do not need the oyster shells and sand layers used for natural grass or decomposed granite courts. Artificial turf provides its own consistent and smooth surface, but proper base preparation, usually involving compacting gravel or crushed stone, is essential for stability and drainage.

Yes. A level playing surface ensures fair gameplay and predictable ball movement. Proper leveling also helps maintain the integrity of the court's dimensions and markings, ensuring consistent measurements like the 10' line and center line. This can be achieved through careful grading and compacting of the base materials before laying down the playing surface, whether it's natural grass, decomposed granite, or artificial turf.

There is no specific "foul line." Key lines on the court include the foot line for throwing, the 10' line for distance measurement, and the center line dividing the court. These lines help organize gameplay and ensure fair play, and players need to keep their throws within these boundaries.

When installing artificial turf for a bocce court, include rock or gravel layers beneath the turf for drainage and base stability. These layers help with water drainage, prevent pooling, and maintain a stable foundation to avoid uneven settling over time. While not required for the turf, they are crucial for the court's durability and performance, ensuring a level surface and optimal playing conditions.

Yes. That provides a slightly textured and firm surface suitable for bocce. Make sure the DG is compacted properly and maintained to keep it level and debris-free.

It divides the court into two equal halves, helping to determine which team plays from which side. It ensures fairness and clarity in gameplay, allowing players to understand their boundaries and strategic positioning relative to the pallino and other bocce balls.

You should use turf between 3/8 inch and 5/8 inch in height. A longer turf height will offer more resistance to the roll compared to a shorter height.