Where to Find Small Chicken Coop Plans

Are you thinking about building a chicken coop for yourself or your family? Are you wondering where to go to get the best plans? Below you will find the top five resources for the best quality chicken coop plans.

The internet: This is where you can do your initial research and look at different types of chicken coops.  Do you want one made of wood, or siding? What colors should you use? You may even be able to find free plans that you can print out.  Be careful, however: make sure the website you are looking at is a reputable source and don’t infringe any copyright laws. If you have any questions, be sure to contact the website owner or administrator.

Your local farmer’s market: Look for the farmers who sell fresh, free-range eggs and let them know your intent.  They may even invite you to their farm so you can get an idea of what a chicken coop looks like up close. Local farmers have a vast knowledge that they would be willing to share with you about the best way to build a coop based on your area and weather conditions. They will also have knowledge about the local zoning by-laws. You may want to contact your local city councillor to check zoning as well.  If you need a permit and don’t obtain one, your city will require you to take down the structure and your hard work will be for naught.

Your neighbourhood:  Chances are one or two of your neighbours already have a chicken coop in their backyard. Take a drive one Sunday afternoon, and strike up a conversation with the owner of a coop that you are interested in. Most people are more than willing to share their experiences and give you advice on what materials to use, how to build, where to get your plan, etc. It may even be the beginning of a new friendship!

Your local farm feed store:  They may sell plans for chicken coops, and they know local farmers they can put you in touch with so you can visit their farms and get all the information you need.

Your Local hardware/lumber store or nursery:  Again, they may sell plans for your coop. They can also give advice as to what materials are best for your area and climate.

Visiting at least one of these sources will give you the information you need to have a pleasant experience building your chicken coop and enjoying fresh eggs every morning for years to come.
Photo:Salvatore Vuono