Chicken coop size.

Worked example

Six standard hens: coop floor 6 × 4 = 24 sq ft (for example 4 ft by 6 ft). Run 6 × 10 = 60 sq ft (for example 6 ft by 10 ft). Roost 6 × 10 in = 60 in, 5 ft of perch. Nest boxes: 6 / 4 = 1.5, so 2 boxes.

How it works

Space per bird, in square feet: bantam 2 coop and 5 run; standard 4 coop and 10 run; large 5 coop and 12 run. Roost space per bird: 6, 10 and 12 inches. Nest boxes: one per 4 birds, rounded up. Totals are the per-bird figure times the number of birds, summed across sizes.

What this is not. These are planning minimums, not a welfare guarantee. Cold climates, long confinement, and aggressive flocks all call for more room. Provide ventilation without draughts, secure the coop and run against predators, and check local rules: many municipalities limit hens, require setbacks or ban roosters.

Sources and basis (checked 2026-10-06): the standard-bird figures (4 sq ft coop, 10 sq ft run) are more generous than the minimums in Table 1 of Penn State Extension’s Small Scale Poultry Housing (1.5 to 2 sq ft inside and 8 to 10 sq ft in the run for laying hens and large chickens). Bantam and large-breed figures are our own scaled estimates.

FAQ

How many square feet per chicken in a coop?

Guides commonly give 3 to 4 sq ft per standard bird inside the coop. This calculator uses 4, with 2 for bantams and 5 for large breeds.

How big should a chicken run be?

About 8 to 10 sq ft per standard bird is a common minimum. The calculator uses 10 for standard birds, 5 for bantams and 12 for large breeds. More is better, especially if they stay in the run all day.

How many nest boxes do I need?

One box per 4 hens is a common rule. Hens often share a favourite box regardless of how many you provide.

Do I need a rooster?

No. Hens lay eggs without one. Many municipalities ban roosters, so check local bylaws before you plan.