City Announces New Measures to Address Pickleball Concerns

The City of Martinez is taking a series of new steps to address neighborhood concerns surrounding the newly constructed pickleball courts at the Hidden Valley Sports Courts.

The courts officially opened on February 28 with a celebratory ribbon-cutting, marking a long-awaited milestone for the pickleball community following years of advocacy. However, within weeks of opening, the City began receiving complaints from nearby residents—primarily related to noise and parking.

Concerns raised during initial 90-day pilot program, which began March 7, included:

• Persistent loud paddle and ball sounds

• Music and crowd noise

• Dogs on the courts

• Parking congestion on nearby public and private streets

• Continued late play into the evening

While existing City ordinance allows for play at all City sport courts until 10:30 p.m., the growing popularity and unique noise impacts of pickleball prompted a more tailored approach.

In response, the City is now moving forward with several immediate actions:

• New Court Hours: Starting June 20, the courts will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily, as part of a new 90-day pilot. Light timers have been adjusted, and temporary signage has been posted while staff spreads awareness among players and neighbors.

• Improved Signage: New signage will be simpler and more focused on promoting neighborhood respect. Large banners will be placed inside the courts, and updated signage stating court rules and hours will be placed up at each entry gate. 

• Security Camera Installation: A security camera equipped with speaker capability will be installed later this summer to improve monitoring and response. This will assist police in addressing off-hours or unsafe behavior.

• Quiet Zone Paddle Use: The City will begin encouraging players to use USA Pickleball “Quiet Zone”-compliant paddles to reduce noise.