How much run-off do I need beyond the boundary, and between fields?
Guideline- Australia
- Cricket Australia
- Facility Guidelines
- Pitches and grounds
- All formats
- 2023
- Curators
Guidance Note 01 (Playing Field) says:
- Run-off distance. Run-off areas beyond the boundary line or rope are shown as 2.74m to 4.0m for all age groups and levels of community cricket. Run-offs take precedence over playing field dimensions, and all playing fields must meet the tabled minimum.
- Plan on top of the field size. Run-off from the boundary markers to the nearest fixed obstruction or neighbouring playing field is in addition to the field of play dimensions.
- Run-off surface. It should be obstacle free (including perimeter drainage, fencing, lighting poles, sight screens, football goal posts and practice nets), have the same gradient as the outfield, and have the same surface as the outfield or an approved equivalent such as synthetic grass. If Cricket Australia-AFL compliant synthetic grass is used, a minimum of 1m of natural turf is recommended between the boundary line and the start of the synthetic grass.
- Multiple fields. Where several playing fields share one area, particularly junior formats, a minimum 5.48m run-off (2 x 2.74m) between each field's boundary line is recommended, so concurrent games do not conflict.
- Buffer zones. Because cricket is a 360-degree sport, buffer zones are recommended right around the perimeter, with distances from car parks, roads, neighbouring properties, trails and playgrounds set through a venue safety assessment.
Added 24 Oct 2026