Premier League pitches are generally hybrid surfaces rather than pure artificial turf. Clubs are required to provide a hybrid playing surface unless the League agrees otherwise, with undersoil heating and grass no longer than 27mm.
What kind of surface a Premier League pitch is
The standard setup for a home league match is a hybrid playing surface. The pitch must be high quality, safe and playable for every home league fixture.
An artificial surface is any playing surface that is not, or is not intended to be, predominantly natural grass.
Adequate quality is judged with the pitch standards framework in mind. Through the season, clubs must take all reasonable steps to keep the surface in good condition, and the board can require specified action if that standard is not being met.
Pitch requirements at a glance
Here are the core requirements for a Premier League pitch.
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Surface | A hybrid playing surface, unless otherwise agreed |
| Heating | An undersoil heating system |
| Grass height | No more than 27mm, cut to the same height throughout |
| Mowing pattern | Straight parallel lines, perpendicular to the touchlines |
| Condition | Kept in good condition all season |
Why Premier League pitches have stripes
The striped look is part of the presentation rule. Grass must be cut in straight, parallel lines across the full width of the pitch, and those lines must run perpendicular to the touchlines.
Other visual patterns are not allowed. Circular or diagonal designs fall outside the permitted presentation for the playing surface.
Grass length and consistency
The grass may not exceed 27mm. The whole playing surface must also be cut to the same height.
That sits alongside the wider duty to keep the pitch in good condition through the season.
FAQ
Are Premier League pitches real grass or artificial?
The usual requirement is a hybrid playing surface. A surface counts as artificial when it is not, or is not intended to be, predominantly natural grass.
Do Premier League stadiums have undersoil heating?
Yes. Each club must provide and maintain an undersoil heating system for its pitch.
Why are Premier League pitches striped?
The mowing pattern is prescribed. Grass has to be cut in straight, parallel lines across the width of the pitch, perpendicular to the touchlines.
How short is the grass on a Premier League pitch?
The maximum grass height is 27mm. The entire playing surface must also be cut to the same height throughout.