DIY Chicken Coop Plans
Reviewed by:
Cody Deluisio, poultry expert
Explore chicken coop ideas for every flock, from simple backyard builds to spacious, movable designs. Choose a design that suits your space, budget, and the number of chickens you keep.
Still deciding between a DIY build and a ready-made coop? Learn more about building vs buying a chicken coop for help deciding which approach is right for you.
PLAN FEATURES
What's Included in Our Chicken Coop Plans
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Complete materials list
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Full hardware list
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Cut list with exact measurements
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Detailed instructions with diagrams
CHICKEN COOP LAYOUTS
Find the Right Coop for Your Flock
Browse our free chicken coop plans to find the design that fits your space, budget and the number of chickens you keep.
4x4 Small Chicken Coop Plan
Recommended Flock Size: 2-4 hens
This 4 ft × 4 ft chicken coop setup is ideal for 2 to 4 hens. The design uses an enclosed area to help keep the interior drier and cleaner, along with a sloped roof to shed rain and snow.
4x6 Chicken Coop Plan
Recommended Flock Size: 2-4 chickens
This 4 ft x 6 ft raised chicken coop is a solid, no-nonsense build designed for folks who want something dependable that will hold up season after season.
4x8 Movable Chicken Coop Plan
Recommended Flock Size: 4-6 chickens
This coop features a sturdy design, a secure nesting box, and ample space for your chickens to roam. The spacious layout allows for great ventilation, while its mobility makes it a versatile option for different yard spaces.
4x8 Walk-In Chicken Coop Plans (With Run)
Recommended Flock Size: 4-6 chickens
This 4x8 walk-in chicken coop is the perfect fit! With plenty of room for four to six birds to roam, built-in ventilation, and predator-proofing, your chickens will be happy and safe.
6x12 Movable Chicken Coop Plan
Recommended Flock Size: Up to 12 chickens
Whether you’re a small farm owner, a homesteader, or a backyard chicken enthusiast, this 6x12 coop offers ample space for up to 12 chickens.
Large 8x8 Chicken Coop Plan (With Run)
Recommended Flock Size: 6-9 chickens
This 8 ft x 8 ft design is a solid fit. This coop is well suited for about 6 to 9 standard chickens.
8x12 Walk-In Chicken Coop Plan
Recommended Flock Size: Up to 24 hens
Designed with your chickens’ comfort and safety in mind, it’s spacious enough for up to 24 hens and built to keep predators out, rain or shine.
20x10 Chicken Coop Plan (With Run)
Recommended Flock Size: Up to 18 chickens
This 20x10 coop with a sloped roof and attached run is exactly what you need.
Tips for Building a Successful Coop
• Choose the right size for your flock and leave room for future expansion.
• Build in the right location on level, well-drained ground.
• Use quality materials that can withstand the weather.
• Prioritize ventilation to keep your chickens comfortable year-round.
• Protect against predators with secure materials and sturdy fittings.
• Make cleaning easy by choosing a design with good access.
• Read the plan before you start so you have the right tools and materials ready.
Shop Ready-to-Assemble Coops
Looking for a coop that's ready for setup? Browse our collection of ready-to-assemble chicken coop kits and find a style right for your flock. Whether you're looking for a compact coop or a spacious walk-in design, we have styles that make setup easy for flocks of any size.
DIY Chicken Coop FAQs
Do I need woodworking experience to build these chicken coop plans?
These plans are written for beginner and intermediate DIYers and include step-by-step instructions, diagrams, materials lists and cut lists to guide you through the entire build.
What tools will I need?
Most projects can be completed using common woodworking tools, including a circular saw, drill/driver, measuring tape, speed square, level and basic hand tools. Each plan includes a complete tools list.
How long does it take to build a chicken coop?
Build time depends on the size of the coop and your experience. Smaller coops can often be completed over a weekend, while larger walk-in designs may take several weekends.
Can I customize the plans?
Yes. The plans can be adapted with additional nesting boxes, larger runs, different roofing materials or extra windows to suit your property and flock.
What type of lumber should I use?
Pressure-treated lumber is recommended for the base and any components that contact the ground. Exterior-grade lumber and plywood are recommended for the remaining structure to improve durability and weather resistance.
How do I keep my coop predator-proof?
Our plans include recommendations for using 1/2-inch galvanized hardware cloth, secure locking doors, proper ventilation covers and buried wire barriers to help protect your flock from common predators.
What size coop do I need?
The right size depends on your flock. As a general rule, allow 3–4 square feet of indoor coop space per chicken and 8–10 square feet per bird in the run. Our plans range from small backyard coops for 2–4 hens to large walk-in designs for flocks of up to 24 birds.