Official Horseshoe Pit Rules

The game of horseshoes can be seen in backyards, at the local park and during tournaments. To score points in the game, you must get your horseshoe to land close to the stake. These stakes are placed in pits, which can contain one of several different materials. The governing body of the game, the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association of America, has set out specifications for how these pits can be constructed and handled.

  1. Before Play

    • According to the NHPA, the pit substance must be clay or sand. Synthetic surfaces must be approved by the NHPA in order to be used. Ground-level pits must be at least 4 inches deep; 8 inches is the recommended depth.

      Raised pits are usually temporary. These types of pits should be no more than 7 inches in height. The substance in the pit should be 4 inches deep.

      The maximum length of the pit measured from the inside is 72 inches while the minimum inside length is 43 inches. The maximum width of a pit is 36 inches while the minimum is 31 inches. Pits have to be centered along the middle of the length of the court. Stakes must be at least 21 inches from the front and back of the pit.

    Maintenance

    • Each contestant has to maintain one pit before his specific game. Maintenance includes watering or turning the clay in the pit if necessary. The material should be an even 4 inches deep across the pit with no raised area around the scoring area.

    During Play

    • Clay material may not be repositioned while a game is in play unless the opposing player gives consent. Dirt or sand pits can be re-positioned and re-leveled during game without the consent of the opponent. Dirt or sand may also be added to the pit if a buried horseshoe is removed or after the measuring of previous horseshoes.