How to Place a Chicken Coop

If you want to enjoy fresh eggs and meat, consider raising your own chickens. Regulations vary, but in many areas homeowners can keep a few hens in the backyard. Once you research the basics of how to care for chickens, you will need to construct a coop before you bring your hens home. Several designs and prefabricated coops are available. They range from small to large depending on how many chickens you can and want to keep. Regardless of the size of your coop, it must be placed properly in your yard for the health and happiness of your chickens.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check with local codes and regulations regarding how close to property lines outbuildings can be placed. Also check how many chickens you are allowed. You don't want to buy a coop for 20 chickens and find out you can only keep two.

    • 2

      Place the site for your coop as close to your home as possible. This not only makes it easier to collect eggs and watch your chickens, but many predators don't want to come close to human dwellings. It will also help if your coop is near a power source in case you need to heat it in winter.

    • 3

      Study the sun patterns in your yard. Your chickens will lay the more eggs if they are exposed to more light. Place the coop where it will receive the most morning and evening sun, but not where it receives intense afternoon sun in the summer.

    • 4

      Examine water pools in your yard after a heavy rain. Chickens need to be kept dry, so avoid placing the coop in wet areas of your yard. If your yard remains soggy during rainy times, purchase or build a coop that doesn't sit directly on the ground.

    • 5

      Learn the wind patterns of your yard. Your chickens needs protection from harsh winds. The coop's vents should not face into the prevailing wind or your chickens can become chilled.

    • 6

      Measure the area you've selected. Build or purchase a coop that will fit into the spot you've decided on.