Starting a miniature golf course business is an exciting opportunity that brings together entertainment with profitability. One of the first questions potential owners ask is: how long does mini golf take to build? The timeline depends on factors like course complexity, permitting, and construction.
If you’re looking to add a mini golf course to an existing business or develop a new standalone attraction, one of the most important factors to consider is also space. The size and layout of your property directly impact the course’s design, playability, and overall customer experience.
An 18-hole mini golf course typically requires between 18,000 and 22,000 square feet. However, with a carefully planned design, it can be built on as little as 9,000 square feet. The total space needed will depend on factors like the course layout, landscaping features, and additional amenities like a clubhouse or parking.
Working with experts like Harris Miniature Golf helps you maximize your available land when planning a course. We also design layouts that create a fun and engaging experience for players.
How Long Does Mini Golf Take to Build?
The timeline for constructing a mini golf course varies based on location, project scope, and required approvals. On average, the actual construction takes 10 to 12 weeks. However, the full process—including design, permitting, and finishing touches—can extend to six months or longer.
Key Phases of Construction:
- Planning & Design (4–12 Weeks): A professional design team helps develop an optimized layout, select engaging course features, and comply with zoning and ADA accessibility requirements.
- Permitting & Site Preparation (4–8 Weeks): Securing necessary permits and preparing the land. This process includes grading, drainage, and utility setup.
- Construction (8–12 Weeks): Building the course, installing landscaping, water features, and obstacles.
- Final Touches & Opening Prep (2–4 Weeks): Adding signage, lighting, and course testing before welcoming guests.
Understanding How Much Land Is Needed
While the recommendation is between 18,000 to 22,000 sq. ft, it is more than possible to construct an 18-hole course on a plot as small as 9,000 sq. ft. The land needed for a miniature golf course depends on several factors, including the layout and contours of the space. This recommendation does not account for parking, a clubhouse, or other facilities. You will need to factor these in when purchasing your property.
Factors That Affect the Space Needed for Mini Golf
The more space you have for your miniature golf course, the more elements you can incorporate into its construction and design. With a larger plot of land, you can bring in more extensive water features and landscaping. It is also important to consider that if the golf holes are too large, they can slow down play. This is why it is important to consult with professionals like Harris Miniature Golf.
Consider the Needs of Your Customers
When our mini golf course is complete, you will be ready to welcome families and players of all ages and abilities. To make your premises truly inclusive, size is not the only consideration.
When you work with a trustworthy partner to design and construct a mini golf course, you can expect full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This will open the doors to a broader base of customers, which is good for business all year round.
There is no fixed minimum or maximum amount of space you need to have – the most important things to consider are whether your course is easy for players to navigate and how “playable” it is!
Build a Profitable Mini Golf Course with Harris Miniature Golf
When looking to venture into the business of mini golf, there’s no one better for your project than Harris Miniature Golf. No matter the size or specifications of your land, our architects and technicians will design a playable course. Their expertise can create a layout that generates profit year after year. To get started, request an investor’s kit from us today!
