Pétanque Recipe

Select and prepare the court

Choose a flat area about 12–15 m long and 3–4 m wide. Clear large stones, sticks and obstacles. If necessary, rake or lightly compact the surface so there is an even layer of gravel, packed earth, or sand for predictable boule rolls.

Mark the throwing circle and boundaries

Use chalk, a rope or cones to mark a 35–50 cm diameter throwing circle at one end of the court and mark the opposite end for the returning end. Optionally mark sidelines about 3–4 m apart to keep play contained.

Gather equipment and players

Divide players into two teams (singles, doubles or triples). Each player should have their assigned boules. Put the cochonnet to the side until you are ready to start.

Throw the cochonnet

One team is chosen to start (coin flip or agreement). A member of that team stands inside the throwing circle with both feet on the ground and throws the cochonnet between 6 and 10 meters from the circle, ensuring it is at least 1 meter from any boundary and clearly visible. If the cochonnet lands outside valid range, rethrow.

First boule (lead-off)

The same player throws the first boule, aiming to get it as close to the cochonnet as possible. Players must throw with at least one foot (or both) touching inside the circle and cannot step out until the thrown boule hits the ground.

Alternate throws

Teams alternate throwing boules until each player has thrown all their boules (or all boules of both teams are played). The team without the closest boule to the cochonnet continues to throw until they either place a boule closer or run out of boules.

Pointing and shooting

Pointing: deliver a boule with the intent to land it close to the cochonnet with a gentle arc. Shooting: aim directly at an opponent’s boule to displace it. Choose technique depending on distance and surface; control weight (force) and trajectory. Keep feet within the circle on each throw.

Measuring

When it is unclear which boule is closest, use a measuring tape, string or calipers. Measure from the closest point on each boule to the cochonnet. Only measure when play is paused.

End conclusion and scoring

When all boules have been played, the team with the closest boule to the cochonnet scores one point for each of their boules that is closer than the opponent’s closest boule. Count only boules closer than the opponent’s nearest boule.

Record score and prepare next end

Record the points on the scoreboard. The team that scored throws the cochonnet for the next end. Move to the opposite end of the court if desired (for longer games) and repeat setup for the next round.

Winning the game

Play successive ends until one team reaches 13 points for standard pétanque. Optionally play to 11 or another agreed target for shorter games.

Safety and courtesy

Stand clear of the throwing circle while someone throws. Do not distract or step into the line of a throw. Keep spectators behind designated lines. Wear sunscreen and hats as needed. Inspect boules to ensure no sharp burrs.

Common optional rules

Allow players to take turns throwing from the exact spot where they previously stood (if a boule is played while crouched, some groups allow repositioning). Some groups play with a 3-meter minimum distance for the cochonnet for safety or time limits. Agree on any house rules before starting.