Build your chicken run larger than you need if you plan to grow your flock in the coming years.
Measure the planned length and width of the run to find the total area. Compare the area of the chicken run to the minimum requirement for the size of your flock. Make sure one of the sides aligns with the small door built into the coop so the chickens can get in and out. If your coop doesn’t have a small door, cut one into the side with a saw. Think about where you want to install the gate so you can access the run easily. Account for how tall you need to make your run. You should comfortably be able to walk in and out of the run once it’s finished, so it should be over 6 ft (1. 8 m) tall.
Plant new trees near your run if you don’t have any existing shade.
Find an area that gets even amounts of sun and shade throughout the day if you live in a climate that gets extreme highs and lows.
Make sure your fence posts are at least 7 ft (2. 1 m) tall. Place a 2 in (5. 1 cm) layer of gravel on the bottom of the hole to protect the post’s end from moisture. Opt for a rot-resistant wood like cedar or white oak for your fence posts and supports.
Make concrete to fill your hole to keep your post from rotting in the future if you want.
If your run is larger than 10 ft (3. 0 m) wide, put a fence post inside the run for an added support beam. Make sure the post is in line with the outer posts on each side. Saw the tops of the fence posts to the same height if they aren’t on level ground. Use a handsaw and a level so all of your posts are the same height. Make your chicken run at least 6 ft (1. 8 m) tall so you can easily walk inside.
If you have supports in the middle of your run, make sure to attach screws to them as well.
Fencing can be purchased at your local hardware or farm animal care stores. The wire is small enough so raccoons, foxes, and weasels are kept out of your run and coop. If you have larger predators in your area, such as bears, use a chain link dog fence wrapped in smaller welded wires to protect your birds. Fencing on top of the chicken run will help protect your flock from owls, hawks, and other predatory birds.
Leave a gap in the fencing where you plan to hang your gate.
Gate doors can be purchased or built on your own. Make sure the door opens out from the run. Otherwise, the spring won’t force the door closed. Make sure the spring is tight and unstretched. This way, the gate will snap back into place after it’s been opened.
Chopped straw can be purchased at your local farm care store. Rake your leaves into the run in the fall once they start to fall for free outdoor bedding. Change the bedding once it starts to smell or once it looks soiled.
If your coop has enough space, keep your food and water inside to protect it from the elements and mold. Make sure the chickens all can fit comfortably inside along with them.
