In a move that’s drawing attention across California, the Carmel City Council is moving forward with what could become the first permanent pickleball ban in the state. The decision follows years of tension between neighbors living near Forest Hill Park and the growing number of local pickleball players using the public courts.

Forest Hill Park had been the only public pickleball location within Carmel city limits, and its popularity quickly clashed with the surrounding residential neighborhood. Residents complained that even “quiet” or soft paddles still created an echoing pop that carried throughout the area at all hours.

A temporary ban was put in place in October, and while the city explored options like requiring quiet equipment or monitoring court usage, officials ultimately determined it wasn’t realistic to enforce.
Many neighbors said the break had made the area feel “peaceful” again, while pickleball players argued for a compromise.

At the November council meeting, after hearing both sides, the City Council unanimously agreed to keep the temporary ban in place and directed staff to draft a permanent ordinance to eliminate pickleball at Forest Hill Park altogether. Opponents of the ban will still have opportunities to appeal during upcoming hearings.

If approved, Carmel would become the first city in California to officially outlaw pickleball at a designated public park — a surprising turn in a sport that has exploded in popularity statewide.

Read more about the ban here 👉🏼 SF Gate