Double First Base Information Guide

A double first base, also known as a safety base, is designed to help reduce collisions and improve player safety in baseball and softball. It features two sections: a white base in fair territory for the defensive player and an orange (or green) base in foul territory for the runner. This design gives each player a separate target at first base, helping minimize the risk of collisions.

Double first base requirements vary by league and governing association, from youth and adult leagues to high school and college competition. Some organizations mandate its use, while others leave the decision to individual leagues or state associations. Below, we outline the current double first base rules for major baseball and softball leagues and associations.

Current Double First Base League/Association Rules

• Youth Leagues & Adult Associations: USA Softball and Little League Baseball and Softball are currently the only organizations that mandate the use of a double first base, although Little League requires it specifically for regional tournaments and the Little League World Series. In other youth baseball and softball leagues and adult softball associations, the use of a double first base is optional and left to the discretion of individual leagues under their local rules.

• High School (NFHS): The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) requires the use of a double first base in high school baseball games (effective January 1, 2027). The NFHS does not require double first bases for high school softball nationwide; their use depends on whether individual state high school associations adopt the rule.

• College (NCAA): NCAA baseball requires a double first base for regular-season and postseason play across all three divisions (Division I, Division II, and Division III). However, institutions may use 18-inch square bases at institutionally owned facilities, while 15-inch square bases remain the standard. NCAA softball also requires a double first base in all three divisions (Division I, Division II, and Division III).

• Olympic Softball: A double first base has been mandatory in Olympic softball since the sport debuted in the 1996 Olympic Games.