Coop Planning

Plan, build, and care for your coop by following these simple steps. See the printable checklist below to take outside with you.

Build in the right location

Plan for future flock size

Make it easy to clean

Where to Build

Plan to build your coop and run where they will stay dry and provide shade.

• Pick high ground or raise the pad so water drains away
• After rain, check for standing water; if it pools, raise the grade or choose another spot
• Slope ground away (~1 in/ft) or use a compacted gravel or road-base pad
• Plan for winter sun and summer shade options
• Have easy access to a hose, power, and a wheelbarrow
• Create a separate pen in the coop for broody or injured birds
• Plan a separate area away from the main flock for sick birds
• For waterfowl, make sure to set the run on well-draining ground, use gravel/sand under water tubs, and move the tub spot frequently to avoid mud

How to Build

Follow these guidelines when putting together the home for your flock.

Space Per Bird (coop size | run size)

• Chickens, standard: 3–4 sq ft | ~10 sq ft
• Heavy breeds: ~5 sq ft | ~15 sq ft
• Turkeys: ~6 sq ft | ~20 sq ft
• Ducks: ~5 sq ft inside | 15–25 sq ft

Roosts

• 8–10 inches of perch space per bird
• 12 inches between roosts
• 18–24 inches off ground
• Use wide side of a 2×4 for cold climates

Predator Proofing

• ½-inch hardware cloth on all openings
• Bury fencing 8–12 inches or install apron
• Lock coop doors at night

Lighting

• 14–16 hours of light daily for layers
• Timer for morning light extension

Feed and Water

• 3 inches of feeder space per bird
• 1 inch of waterer space per bird
• Spread out stations

Floors and Walls

• Use non-porous flooring
• Paint walls and floors for easy cleaning
• Seal cracks (can help with preventing lice and mite infestations)
• Add dropping boards/trays (optional)

Nest Boxes

• Add outside access to nest boxes for egg collection
• One 12″ x 12″ x 12″ box per 3–5 hens
• Mount 1–2 feet off ground, lower than roosts

Ventilation

• 1 sq ft vent per 10 sq ft coop
• Vents above roosts, covered with ½-inch hardware cloth

3 Times Daily – Quick Checks

Perform these checks morning, midday, and evening to keep your coop safe and clean:

• Collect eggs
• Ensure waterers aren’t frozen and top off feed
• Spot clean any wet or soiled areas
• Lock the coop and run at dusk; inspect fence and latches for gaps or damage

2 Times Weekly – Maintenance Tasks

Keep things fresh and functional with these twice-weekly jobs:

• Wash feeders and waterers
• Add dry bedding and open vents to improve airflow and reduce ammonia
• Spot clean as needed

1 Time Monthly – Safety Sweep

Do a thorough walk-through of the coop and run:

• Check and fix loose wires, latches, holes, roof, and vent issues