How Far Should You Stand from a Dartboard?

Darts is a game of precision, skill, and proper positioning. One of the most crucial aspects of playing correctly is knowing the correct throwing distance from the dartboard. Whether you’re playing for fun at home or competing in a professional tournament, standing at the correct throwing line (oche) ensures fair and accurate gameplay.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
✅ The official throwing distance in darts
✅ How to measure the correct dartboard distance
✅ Throwing distance variations for different dart games
✅ Tips for setting up a perfect dart-playing area

Let’s dive into the perfect throwing distance and how to set up your dartboard correctly!

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1. What Is the Official Distance to Stand from a Dartboard?

🎯 A. Standard Throwing Distance for Steel Tip Darts (Traditional Darts)

For standard steel tip darts, the official throwing distance is:

📏 7 feet 9 ¼ inches (2.37 meters) from the dartboard face

This measurement is set by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) and the World Darts Federation (WDF) for tournaments worldwide.

Additionally, the dartboard’s bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to match standard height regulations.

🎯 B. Standard Throwing Distance for Soft Tip Darts (Electronic Darts)

If you’re playing soft tip darts, commonly found in electronic dartboards, the official throwing distance is:

📏 8 feet (2.44 meters) from the dartboard face

Electronic dartboards often require a slightly longer throwing distance due to different board designs and lighter darts.

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2. How to Measure the Correct Dart Throwing Distance?

Setting up a dartboard correctly involves measuring the distance accurately. Here’s how you can do it:

✅ A. Measuring the Floor Distance

1. Start from the dartboard face (not the wall).

2. Use a tape measure to mark 7 feet 9 ¼ inches (2.37 meters) on the floor for steel-tip darts.

3. Use 8 feet (2.44 meters) for soft-tip darts.

4. Mark this point as the throwing line (oche).

✅ B. Measuring the Diagonal Distance

If you want extra accuracy, measure the diagonal distance from the bullseye to the throwing line. The correct diagonal distance is:

📏 9 feet 7 ½ inches (2.93 meters) from the bullseye to the oche

This method ensures you have positioned both the dartboard and the oche correctly.

✅ C. Marking the Throwing Line (Oche)

Once you have measured the distance, mark the throwing line on the floor using:
🔹 Tape (for temporary setup)
🔹 A raised bar (for permanent setups)
🔹 A dart mat with pre-marked lines

Professional setups often use a raised oche (½ inch high) to prevent players from stepping over the line.

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3. Why Is the Dart Throwing Distance Important?

Standing at the correct distance ensures:
✅ Fair competition – Everyone plays under the same conditions.
✅ Accurate scoring – Throws are measured consistently.
✅ Better dart technique – Encourages correct stance and arm positioning.

Playing too close can make the game too easy, while playing too far can make it unnecessarily difficult. Following the official measurements maintains game integrity and improves your skills.

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4. Different Throwing Distances for Dart Game Variations

While the standard distance is 7 feet 9 ¼ inches, some game variations and casual formats use different distances.

🎯 A. Beginner or Casual Play

If you’re setting up a dartboard for kids or beginners, you may reduce the throwing distance to:
📏 6 feet (1.83 meters) – Easier for new players to reach the board.

🎯 B. American Dart League (ADL) Distance

Some American dart leagues use a longer throwing distance:
📏 8 feet (2.44 meters)

🎯 C. Wheelchair Players

For wheelchair players, the throwing distance remains 7 feet 9 ¼ inches, but the height of the bullseye is adjusted to 4 feet 6 inches (1.37 meters).

🎯 D. Custom Home Rules

Some casual players adjust the throwing distance based on:
✅ Skill level – New players may move closer.
✅ Dart type – Heavier darts may require minor adjustments.
✅ Room size – Smaller rooms may need a shorter throwing distance.

While casual adjustments are fine, competitive play always follows official distances.

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5. How to Set Up a Perfect Dartboard Playing Area

If you’re creating a dedicated dart-playing space, follow these tips for the best setup:

✅ A. Choose the Right Wall Space

• Place the dartboard on a solid wall (avoid windows or doors).

• Leave at least 5 feet of space around the board for free movement.

✅ B. Use a Dartboard Surround or Cabinet

• Protect your wall from stray darts by using a dartboard surround or dartboard cabinet.

✅ C. Ensure Proper Lighting

• Install spotlights or LED lighting above the dartboard for clear visibility.

✅ D. Mark the Throwing Line Clearly

• Use a dart mat or raised oche to ensure the line is visible.

✅ E. Consider Flooring Protection

• Use a rubber dart mat or carpet to protect floors from bounce-outs.

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6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Dart Distance

🚫 Mistake 1: Measuring from the wall instead of the dartboard face
✔️ Solution: Always measure from the front surface of the dartboard, not the wall behind it.

🚫 Mistake 2: Forgetting the diagonal check
✔️ Solution: Double-check by measuring 9 feet 7 ½ inches from bullseye to oche.

🚫 Mistake 3: Stepping over the throwing line
✔️ Solution: Use a raised oche or clear floor marking to prevent fouls.

🚫 Mistake 4: Setting the dartboard too low or too high
✔️ Solution: Always place the bullseye at 5 feet 8 inches from the floor.

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7. Final Thoughts: Stand at the Right Distance for the Best Game!

Standing at the correct dart throwing distance is essential for improving your accuracy, consistency, and game performance. By following the official measurements and properly setting up your dart-playing area, you can enjoy a fair and professional experience.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

✅ Steel Tip Darts Distance: 7 feet 9 ¼ inches (2.37 meters)
✅ Soft Tip Darts Distance: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
✅ Bullseye Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters)
✅ Diagonal Distance Check: 9 feet 7 ½ inches (2.93 meters)
✅ Always measure from the dartboard face, not the wall

By setting up your dartboard correctly, you’ll create the perfect environment for improving your dart skills and having fun! 🎯🔥