Example chicken coop plan, start to finish
Small coop with attached predator-proof run. This is a real output from the chicken coop calculator — nothing blurred, nothing withheld. Change any dimension and yours regenerates instantly. Estimates only, never a quote.
- Hens
- 4
- Coop
- 6×4 ft
- Run
- 10×6 ft
- Per hen
- 21 sqft
- Siding
- t1-11
- Nest boxes
- 1
Scaled diagram
Full shopping list
Foundation skids (PT 4×4 × 8') 2 ea × $28 | $56 |
Floor joists (PT 2×6 × 8') 7 ea × $18 | $126 |
Floor deck (3/4" PT plywood) 2 ea × $42 | $84 |
Wall studs (2×4 × 8') 26 ea × $6 | $156 |
Plates (2×4 × 12') 6 ea × $8 | $48 |
Sheathing (7/16" OSB 4×8) 5 ea × $28 | $140 |
Siding (t1-11 4×8) 5 ea × $48 | $240 |
Metal roof panels (3×10) 3 ea × $55 | $165 |
Nest boxes (pre-built) 1 ea × $45 | $45 |
Roost bar (2×2 × 8') 1 ea × $8 | $8 |
Coop pop door + hardware 1 ea × $90 | $90 |
Run posts (PT 4×4 × 8') 7 ea × $22 | $154 |
Concrete for run posts (50lb) 14 bag × $7 | $91 |
1/2" hardware cloth (4×25 roll) 4 roll × $65 | $260 |
Fasteners (nails, screws, staples) 4 lb × $12 | $48 |
| Incl. 10% waste ($156) | $1,711 |
Cut list
- Skids ×24×4 × 6'
- Floor joists ×72×6 × 4'
- Wall studs ×262×4 × 5'
- Run posts ×74×4 × 8'
- Roost bar ×12×2 × 4'
Permit checkpoints
- Set your state for localized rules
Permit thresholds, frost-line depth, and fence-height caps vary a lot by state. Pick your state above to tailor this checklist.
- Confirm chickens are allowed in your zone
Most cities allow backyard hens (3-6 birds) but many prohibit roosters and set minimum lot sizes. Some require a permit. Call your city's animal-control office before you start.
- Setback from property lines and house
Coops commonly require 10-25ft from any neighboring dwelling and 5-10ft from property lines. Verify locally — this varies widely.
- Call 811 before setting run posts
You're setting fence posts on concrete footings — call 811 3 business days ahead.
- Bury hardware cloth or use a full-perimeter apron
Raccoons, foxes, and dogs dig. Either bury the run's hardware cloth 12" deep or lay a 12" apron of hardware cloth flat on the ground around the perimeter.
- HOA rules on livestock
Many HOAs prohibit chickens. Get written approval before you build.
Rules vary by city and county — always confirm with your local building department. Estimates only, not a permit determination.
Plan it. Price it. Build it.
Enter your own dimensions and get this same plan for your yard — plus the build guide, permit packet and printable PDFs.
Start my chicken coop