The restricted area in basketball is a semi-circle arc painted just under the basketball goal that outlines the area on the basketball floor where secondary, off-ball defenders are restricted from taking charges. Any secondary defender attempting to draw a charge inside the restricted area will automatically be called for a blocking foul.

The restricted area is a semi-circular arc under the rim. Its primary purpose is to enhance player safety by limiting collisions between offensive and defensive players under the basket. Any secondary defenders who attempt to draw a charge in this area will automatically get called for a blocking foul.

This area, located inside the key, is a place on the court that a charging foul cannot be called by an offensive player. A defensive player cannot spend more than three seconds in the restricted area.