Play Bocce
Our friendly staff is here to help teach players how to play the game. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned player, there’s a place for you on our courts.
Open Play
No experience needed — come out and play bocce any time during open play hours. You may reserve a court, or multiple courts, in advance by calling our office. We host many events, fundraisers and tournaments so please call in advance for availability.
Open Play Fees
| Non-League Players (drop-in) | $20/person |
| League Players (drop-in) | $15/person |
| Children under 14 | $10/person |
Cash only, or $25 minimum credit card. League player passes available for purchase. Play up to 3 hours.
Open Play Reservations
Open play reservations are priced per hour. Call to reserve.
Call 415.485.5583Open Play Hours
Open play is available Saturdays and Sundays when no private events are scheduled. Check the weather hotline at (415) 419-3553 for same-day availability.
The facility will close when it is raining.
Event Court Reservations
Reserve courts for special events, team building, corporate events, fundraisers, and family gatherings.
Bocce Rules
Everything you need to know to get on the court — from basic gameplay to court conduct.
To play bocce, you need two equal teams of either one, two, or four persons per team. On a four-member team, two players from each team are stationed at opposite ends of the court and play alternate frames.
Starting the Game: A coin toss determines which team starts. The starting team selects the pallino (small target ball) and rolls it to the opposite end of the court. The pallino must be thrown past the centerline and not touch the backboard. The same team then rolls their first bocce ball, trying to get it as close to the pallino as possible.
Game Play: The opposing team rolls their bocce balls until one of their balls is closer to the pallino than the starting team’s ball, or until they have used all their balls. Teams continue rolling alternately until all balls have been rolled, ending the frame.
Scoring: A point is awarded for every ball that is closer to the pallino than the closest ball of the opposing team. The team that wins the frame rolls the pallino to start the next frame.
Winning: Morning League games are played to 10 points. Night League games are played to 12 points. The ball must leave the hand before the player steps over the foul line.
Shooting: Players must announce before shooting. Lofting beyond the centerline is prohibited. If a thrown ball does not hit the playing surface before the centerline and strikes a ball or pallino, it is an invalid shot.
Measuring: Only captains (or their designees) may measure. Measurements are made from the inside edge of the ball to the inside edge of the pallino. If a measurement results in a tie, the last team to roll must roll again until the tie is broken.
Disputes: Teams referee their own games. In the event of an irresolvable dispute, pause the game and seek assistance from the attending staff member.
By participating in MBF, all players agree to uphold this code of conduct and the values it represents. The following is not an exhaustive list — the spirit of this code will be enforced at all times.
- Welcoming Environment: We invite individuals from all backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures to join MBF, fostering a diverse and vibrant community.
- No Tolerance for Discrimination: Any form of harassment, discrimination, or exclusion based on race, ethnicity, beliefs, personal attributes, or cultural background is strictly prohibited.
- Inclusivity and Respect: We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every player feels valued, respected, and integral to our community.
- Respect for Diversity: Players must respect each other’s differences in all ways, including gender, race, politics, religion, sexual preference, and age.
- Sensitive Discussions: Discussions on politics, religion, and other sensitive topics are discouraged. If they occur, they must be conducted with the utmost respect and a willingness to understand differing viewpoints.
- Political Apparel: Players are discouraged from wearing political apparel during bocce league and events to maintain neutrality and comfort within our organization.
- Safe and Comfortable Environment: We aim to maintain an environment where all players feel safe and welcomed at all times.
- Kindness and Consideration: All players should treat one another — and all staff and guests — with kindness, respect, and consideration at all times.
- No Bullying or Harassment: Bullying, harassment, and discrimination are strictly prohibited and will be dealt with seriously.
- Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts: Players should resolve disagreements peacefully and respectfully. Physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.
- Language: Players will limit their use of inappropriate language on the courts and throughout MBF premises.
- Reporting Violations: Any behavior contrary to this code of conduct should be reported to the staff member in attendance or the president of the board.
- Handling Violations: Violations of this code will result in disciplinary actions, including possible suspension or expulsion from MBF.
- Leadership’s Role: The MBF Board of Directors reserves the right to enforce this code and take appropriate action to ensure a respectful and inclusive community.
- Good Sportsmanship: Players must exhibit good sportsmanship and follow all MBF rules at all times.
Download the official MBF documents
Full rules and complete code of conduct for 2026.
More at MBF
Leagues
Join over 1,200 players in our morning and evening leagues. Three 9-week sessions per year — Spring, Summer, and Fall.
League InfoTournaments
In-house MBF tournaments and USBF regional tournaments. All skill levels welcome — cash prizes for top finishers.
View TournamentsQuestions?
Our staff is here to help — give us a call or send an email.