The Badminton World Federation (BWF) Laws of Badminton specify the net height at 1.55 metres (5 feet 1 inch) measured from the floor to the top of the net at the posts, over both the singles and doubles sidelines. At the centre of the court, the net is permitted to dip slightly to 1.524 metres (5 feet), giving the net a gentle sag across its width — identical for singles and doubles play.

The net itself must be 760mm (0.76m) deep from top to bottom, made of fine cord or synthetic fibre mesh with mesh openings of 15–20mm. The top of the net is bordered by a white tape 75mm (7.5cm) deep, doubled over a cord or cable running through it, which is what attaches to the posts and gives the net its straight top edge.

Net posts must stand exactly 1.55m tall from the floor and be positioned on the doubles sidelines — even when singles is played on a doubles court, the net and posts are not moved inward. Posts must be firm enough to keep the net taut and free of sag, except for the permitted dip at the centre.