Pickleball enthusiasts from across Singapore have called for a relaxing of restrictions on when the sport can be played around HDB neighbourhoods.
A number of Town Councils only allow pickleball play at HDB multi-purpose courts between 10am and 8pm.
However, a petition on Change.org was launched on 8 October to allow pickleball from 8am to 9pm. “We believe this balanced schedule allows morning play while still maintaining respect for nearby residents’ rest times,” they said.
The petition was addressed to Sport Singapore (SportSG), People’s Association (PA), HDB, and Town Councils. The pickleball players behind the petition said that the limited hours “make it difficult for working adults and early risers to enjoy the game – particularly on weekends and public holidays when most residents are free.”
The petition has close to 1,500 signatures, at press time on Sunday evening (12 Oct).
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A reason for the restrictions is mainly due to the jarring sound of a pickleball paddle making contact with the ball. Over 75 per cent of respondents in a recent Yahoo poll found the sport too noisy.
Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat revealed that from January 2024 to August 2025, the Municipal Services Office received 701 noise complaints about pickleball.
But, as per the petition on Change.org, pickleball enthusiasts argue that low noise solutions such as ‘quiet paddles’ and ‘low-noise balls’ do exist and can greatly reduce sound levels. They also point out that pickleball’s fun and inclusiveness promotes health and active aging.
“Pickleball fosters regular exercise and social connection among seniors, youths, and families,” they said. “By encouraging seniors to stay physically and socially engaged, pickleball can contribute to improved public health outcomes and help reduce national healthcare costs in the long term.”
So, we want to know: Should pickleball be allowed from 8am to 9pm at HDB courts?
Related:
Allow Pickleball Play from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at HDB Neighbourhood Courts Across Singapore
Over 1,200 sign petition to allow for longer pickleball hours at HDB courts from 8am to 9pm
Over 700 pickleball noise complaints in HDB estates since 2024
Pickleball noise causes tension in some estates as the sport gains popularity
