The kitchen, also known as the non-volley zone, is an area on each side of the net that extends 7 feet back from the net. Players are not allowed to step into the kitchen and hit a volley (a ball that has not bounced on the ground). Here are the main rules of the kitchen in pickleball:

​

1. Volleying the ball is not allowed while standing inside the kitchen, whether it is the serve or any other shot. If the ball lands in the kitchen, the player must let it bounce before hitting it.

2. A player may step into the kitchen only after the ball has bounced on their side of the court.

3. If a player steps into the kitchen before the ball has bounced, it is considered a fault, and the point goes to the opposing team.

4. A player who hits the ball while standing in the kitchen is also considered a fault, and the point goes to the opposing team.

5. If the ball hits the player or the paddle while they are standing in the kitchen, it is considered a fault, and the point goes to the opposing team.

6. The player may enter the kitchen to retrieve a ball that has bounced in it, but they must exit before attempting a shot.

7. The kitchen lines are considered inbounds, so any ball that lands on the kitchen line is considered to be in play.
    

Adhering to the rules of the kitchen is important in pickleball, as it ensures fair play and safety for all players. Violations of these rules can result in the loss of a point or the loss of serve, so it's important to understand and follow these rules during gameplay.