How do you hang a dartboard? Official height, distance and step-by-step guide

Quick answer: Hang a dartboard with the bullseye at exactly 173 cm from the floor. For steel-tip darts the official throwing distance is 237 cm measured from the front of the board to the oche; for soft-tip (electronic) boards that is 244 cm. Hanging takes around ten minutes and only requires a bracket, a screw and a spirit level. 

Hanging a dartboard may seem straightforward, but the official measurements are set internationally by the PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) and the WDF (World Darts Federation). Anyone who installs the height or distance even a few centimetres off will get used to a non-standard setup. This article gives you the exact dimensions and a step-by-step guide.

What are the official measurements for a dartboard?

The two key measurements are the bullseye height and the throwing distance. Both are set by the PDC and WDF and apply worldwide for competition and home use:

The diagonal measurement (293 cm for steel-tip) is useful if you want to measure faster without two separate measurements: measure diagonally from the bullseye to the front edge of the oche (throwing line).

Where is the best place to hang a dartboard?

The ideal location combines enough space, a suitable wall surface and good lighting:

•        Minimum playing area: 2.5 metres wide and 3.5 metres deep. This provides room for the throwing motion of multiple players.

•        Wall surface: concrete and brick hold the board most securely. Plasterboard works, but use a wall plug.

•        Lighting: make sure the dartboard is well lit without shadows. Dartboard lighting prevents this.

•        Surround: fit a dartboard surround around the board to protect the wall from missed darts.

How do you hang a dartboard? Step by step

Step 1: Measure the correct height

Measure 173 cm from the floor and mark this point on the wall. This is the position of the centre of the bullseye. Use a pencil and a tape measure.

Step 2: Mount the bracket

Screw the wall bracket (included with every dartboard) to the marked point. Check with a spirit level that the bracket is straight before screwing it in. Always use a wall plug on plasterboard.

Step 3: Attach the central screw to the board

Screw the central screw into the back of the dartboard. Place the supplied rubber spacers between the board and the wall to prevent wobbling and to protect the wall.

Step 4: Hang the board and check

Hang the board on the bracket with the '20' segment at the top. Check again with a spirit level. Finally measure the throwing distance: 237 cm (steel-tip) or 244 cm (soft-tip) from the front of the board. Mark the oche with tape or a dart mat.

Tip: A dart mat with an integrated oche marking (such as the KOTO Carpet Checkout Dart Mat) saves measuring and protects the floor at the same time.

Can you hang a dartboard without drilling?

Yes, but with limitations:

•        Use a dartboard stand: a free-standing stand such as the KOTO Heavy Duty Multi Stand places the board without wall mounting. Suitable for tenants or people who want to move the board regularly.

For permanent use, drilling is always the most reliable option. A dartboard weighs 3-5 kg and will fall if not secured properly.

How do you extend the lifespan of your dartboard?

•        Rotate weekly: turn the number ring one or two segments so the triple-20 area wears more evenly. No tools needed: remove the ring, rotate the board, reattach the ring.

•        Sharpen points: blunt or burred dart tips damage the sisal fibres. Sharpen tips weekly with a point sharpener or replace them in time.

•        Store dry: moisture causes sisal boards to swell and warp. Do not hang the board in a damp cellar or garage.

•        Use a surround: a dartboard surround catches missed darts and prevents damage to wall and board.

Ready to get started?

With a bullseye at 173 cm and an oche at 237 cm you have a setup that meets the official rules. Add a dart mat and surround and your wall and floor are protected. Browse the full range in the Dartshopper webshop.