Raising chickens in your backyard has become increasingly popular in both suburban and urban areas. Whether you’re after farm-fresh eggs or looking to teach your kids about sustainability, building your own chicken coop is a rewarding project. Not only can you save money by going the DIY route, but you can also design a coop that perfectly fits your available space and style preferences.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 13 creative DIY chicken coop plans, ideal for everything from small backyard setups to urban environments. These designs also focus on sustainability by incorporating recycled or upcycled materials where possible. Whether you’re working with limited space or looking to build something with eco-conscious materials, there’s a plan here for you.
Key Considerations Before Building
Before we dig into the construction process, consider your local zoning laws, especially if you live in an urban area. Some cities require permits or have limits on the number of chickens you can keep. Make sure to research these regulations so you don’t run into trouble down the road.
The size of your coop should align with the number and breed of chickens you plan to keep. Larger breeds require more space, both in the coop and in the outdoor run. It’s also important to include adequate ventilation, nesting boxes, and predator protection.
Finally, consider sustainable building methods. Reusing materials like pallets, old windows, or roofing sheets can reduce waste and costs. Choosing eco-friendly materials not only helps the environment but also adds character to your coop.
13 DIY Chicken Coop Plans for a Happy, Healthy Flock
1. Basic Small Coop for 2–4 Chickens
This simple coop design is perfect for beginners and those with just a few hens. Made from plywood or repurposed wood, it offers just enough space for 2 to 4 chickens. The compact structure is easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for a first-time chicken keeper.
Despite its simplicity, the design includes all the essentials: roosting bars, nesting boxes, and proper ventilation. It’s a great choice for people with small backyards and limited DIY experience. Add a small fenced run, and your chickens will be happy and secure.
This plan is an excellent example of a small backyard chicken coop DIY project that doesn’t require advanced carpentry skills. The lightweight materials make it easy to move, and its small footprint ensures it fits even in tight outdoor spaces.
2. A-Frame Urban Coop
The A-frame coop is a sleek, space-saving option that works wonderfully in tight urban spaces. Its triangular design minimizes materials and offers great protection from the elements. Lightweight and mobile, it can be relocated around your yard to give your chickens fresh ground to peck at.
Inside, the design accommodates roosting and nesting areas with hinged doors for easy access. You can add wheels to make the coop even more mobile, turning it into a tractor coop that fertilizes your lawn as it moves.
Perfect for urban chicken coop plans, this build combines efficiency and aesthetics. Use recycled plastic roofing or salvaged wood to make it a sustainable coop build tutorial project.
3. Reclaimed Pallet Coop
If you’re passionate about sustainability, this coop made from reclaimed pallets is a must-try. Pallets are often discarded by warehouses and stores, making them an accessible and cost-effective building material.
The design focuses on creating a cozy yet functional space using as much reclaimed material as possible. Add a tin roof from old sheets and repurposed windows for ventilation. The result is a rustic, eco-friendly chicken home with serious personality.
This sustainable coop build tutorial reduces waste and promotes green living. Plus, the unique look of weathered wood adds charm to your backyard setup.
4. Compact Raised Coop with Run
This elevated coop is ideal for those who want to save ground space while keeping the chickens safe and dry. The raised design helps with ventilation and protects chickens from predators and ground moisture.
Underneath the coop is a small run, giving chickens some freedom without taking up extra space. Cleaning is simplified with removable trays or a hinged bottom door.
Especially suited for small backyard chicken coop DIY projects, this design maximizes utility while keeping your flock secure. You can even build a ladder for chickens to access the elevated living space.
5. Convertible Tractor Coop
This design allows you to move the coop around your yard, offering chickens access to fresh grass and bugs while fertilizing your lawn. Lightweight materials like PVC piping or wood frames with mesh sides make this coop mobile and functional.
The inside typically includes a small sleeping and nesting area. You can add a tarp or metal sheet roof for weather protection and handles or wheels for portability.
As a practical and eco-friendly option, the tractor coop works well for those who want flexibility. It’s a smart inclusion in any list of urban chicken coop plans or sustainability projects.
6. Green Roof Coop
The green roof coop is as beautiful as it is functional. By installing a planted roof with sedum or native grasses, you create natural insulation and a stunning visual focal point.
The vegetation helps regulate temperatures inside the coop, keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter. It also reduces runoff, making it a sustainable coop build tutorial must-have.
Pair this feature with upcycled siding and windows, and you’ll have one of the most environmentally friendly and eye-catching coops in your neighborhood.
7. Repurposed Playhouse Coop
Turn an old children’s playhouse into a whimsical chicken coop with minimal effort. Add a small ramp, secure the windows with mesh, and install a nesting box or two inside.
This creative reuse not only saves materials but also transforms unused backyard clutter into something practical. The playful design will bring smiles to your family and guests.
Using a playhouse is a great idea for small backyard chicken coop DIY builds, especially when budget and time are limited.
8. Modern Urban Coop with Skylight
If style matters to you, this sleek urban design features polycarbonate roofing that doubles as a skylight. Natural light promotes egg-laying and keeps the coop bright and mold-free.
Modern materials and minimalist design make it a great fit for urban homes. Build it with steel mesh and reclaimed wood to blend functionality with sustainability.
This coop is the perfect fusion of form and function. Among urban chicken coop plans, it stands out for its chic appearance and forward-thinking design.
9. Cold-Climate Coop with Insulation
For colder climates, insulation is critical to keep your chickens warm and egg production steady. This plan includes foam paneling or straw bale insulation within wooden walls.
Double doors and weather stripping help reduce drafts. A well-insulated roof with proper ventilation ensures fresh air without losing warmth.
Using salvaged insulation or even hay bales makes this a sustainable coop build tutorial for colder regions. Chickens stay cozy even during snowy months.
10. Minimalist Walk-In Coop
A walk-in design simplifies daily maintenance and makes it easier to collect eggs or clean the coop. The interior includes elevated roosts, storage shelves, and plenty of floor space.
Constructed with simple lines and durable materials, this design is easy to customize. You can even add solar lighting and automatic feeders for convenience.
Great for those with medium flocks, the minimalist walk-in coop combines practicality with efficiency. It’s a standout idea for any serious backyard chicken keeper.
11. Chicken Coop with Storage Bench
Double-duty furniture makes this plan extra practical. The bench serves as seating while storing feed, bedding, or tools. Beneath it, a door opens to the coop’s nesting boxes.
It’s a clever way to integrate storage into your chicken-keeping routine without using extra space. Build it using leftover wood for a more sustainable approach.
Ideal for small backyard chicken coop DIY setups, this plan keeps your yard tidy while maximizing utility.
12. DIY Coop on a Budget ($150 or Less)
You don’t need a big budget to build a great coop. This plan uses recycled fencing, old doors, and leftover roofing to create a safe, functional chicken home for under $150.
Even with limited funds, you can build something durable and secure. Focus on essential features: a dry sleeping area, a place to roost, and predator-proof walls.
It’s proof that sustainable coop build tutorials don’t have to be expensive. This budget-friendly plan is perfect for renters or new chicken keepers.
13. Upcycled Shed Conversion Coop
Have an old garden shed? Don’t let it go to waste! This plan shows how to convert it into a spacious chicken coop with minimal structural changes.
Add nesting boxes, ventilation, and a ramp, and you’re good to go. You can even cut a small chicken door and use the main shed door for maintenance access.
This build is ideal for medium to large flocks and focuses heavily on reuse. Among all the urban chicken coop plans, this one might save you the most time and money.
Final Thoughts
No matter your budget, space, or experience level, there’s a DIY chicken coop plan here that can fit your needs. From basic pallet builds to stylish modern coops with skylights, these ideas make raising chickens easy and rewarding.
Prioritize sustainable materials where possible, and don’t be afraid to get creative with repurposing. Your chickens—and your wallet—will thank you.
So whether you’re dreaming of a small backyard chicken coop DIY setup or a show-stopping urban chicken coop plan, let these ideas inspire your next backyard project.