What is a foot fault in volleyball?

A foot fault occurs when the server steps on or over the end line at the moment of contacting the ball for the serve. It is a service fault and the opponent scores a point.

Full Explanation

Per FIVB Rule 12.4.4, at the moment of the service hit, the server must be within the service zone and must not touch the end line or the ground outside the service zone. A foot fault is called if the server's foot makes contact with the end line at the moment of contact (not before or after). After contact, the server may land on the line or in the court. The service zone is 9 meters wide behind the end line (FIVB Rule 12.4). The fault results in a point and serve for the opponent. NFHS Rule 6-2-3 and NCAA rules follow the same standard.

Rulesets covered: FIVB/USAV/NFHS/NCAA  |  Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 12.4.4; NFHS Rule 6-2-3