Carmel-by-the-Sea Poised to Enact California's First Permanent Pickleball Ban

Carmel, California, is on track to become the first city in the state to permanently ban pickleball, following a recent decision by its City Council to advance an ordinance. The move comes after years of persistent noise complaints from residents living near Forest Hill Park, the site of the city's only public pickleball courts. The temporary ban, initially imposed in October, is now moving towards a permanent status, setting a potential precedent for other California municipalities.

The Carmel City Council recently voted unanimously to direct its city attorney to draft legislation for a permanent ban, extending a temporary prohibition enacted earlier this month. This action effectively paves the way for the permanent removal of pickleball from Forest Hill Park, which serves as the sole public facility for the sport within city limits. While other public and private courts exist on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel's decision specifically targets its city-run court.

The impetus for the ban stems from numerous complaints regarding the distinctive "popping" sound generated by pickleballs hitting paddles, which residents near Forest Hill Park described as a constant nuisance. Kimberly Edwards, a resident living near the court, stated at an October council meeting that pickleball "should be banned in the town because it is so loud." This ongoing issue has consumed significant city resources and council attention, with Councilmember Bob Delves noting, "pickleball has created a distraction... and expended resources, and we need to just stop."

While other California cities have explored restrictions or temporary bans, Carmel's proposed permanent prohibition would mark a significant first for the state. Council members initially considered alternatives, including "quiet" equipment or sound mitigation measures like "pickleball glass," but ultimately opted for a full ban. Competitive pickleball player Barbara Lang urged the council to consider quiet balls, stating, "If you want to try it with the quiet ball, I think it’s only fair to the players to give that a chance."

The drafted ordinance will undergo further hearings and a council vote before it can be officially implemented. Mayor Dale Byrne indicated that the issue is not yet definitively settled, acknowledging the need for further discussion. The decision reflects a growing tension in communities nationwide between the sport's rapid rise in popularity and the noise concerns of nearby residents.