Softball field rules are sometimes modified by recreation leagues to fit existing lot sizes. Such modifications most often affect the outfield. The distance between bases, the size of the pitcher's mound, the catcher's area, the distance from home plate to the backstop, the infield's rim and the infield fence are somewhat standard.
Pitcher's Mound
NCAA rules require an 8-foot radius for the pitcher's mound and places home plate 43 feet from the center of the mound. This distance, however, will vary by softball field and the type of softball being played. Adult fast pitch typically has a distance of 35 to 40 feet, whereas slow pitch can range from 35 to 53 feet, according to Sports Know How.
Distance Between Bases
NCAA standards call for 60 feet between bases. This is the standard distance between bases for recreational leagues as well. Base lines are set up at 90 degree angles. The grass line typically is a semi-circle that has a circumference of 60 feet originating at the pitcher's mound.
Backstop and Fencing
The backstop has to be 25 to 30 feet behind home plate, according to NCAA standards. Fencing for the out-of-bounds area also is set up 25 to 30 feet from the foul lines that run from home plate to first base and third base to home plate.
Other Areas
The catcher's area is most often designated as a 9-foot radius surrounding home plate. The on-deck circle has a 2 1/2 foot radius under NCAA rules. Youth softball often does not allow an on-deck area. A 15-foot wide by 3-foot deep coach's box is placed near third base and a 5-foot deep by 30-foot wide coaches box is put near first base under the NCAA's required dimensions. The typical recreation programs places a 15-foot by 3-foot box at both locations, advises Sports Know How.
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