A coop for 10 chickens should be at least 80-100 square feet to ensure adequate space for comfort, movement, and health.
Raising chickens requires proper housing to keep them healthy and productive. For 10 chickens, you need at least 20-40 square feet of coop space. This guide covers everything from coop dimensions to ventilation needs.
How Much Space Do 10 Chickens Need?
The general rule is 4 square feet per standard-sized chicken inside the coop. For 10 hens, this means:
- Minimum coop size: 40 sq ft (e.g., 5×8 ft)
- Ideal coop size: 50-60 sq ft (e.g., 6×10 ft)
- Run space: 100 sq ft minimum (10 sq ft per bird)
Bantam breeds need slightly less space – about 2-3 sq ft per bird inside the coop. Meat chickens (like Cornish Cross) require more room at 6 sq ft each.
Why More Space is Better
While 4 sq ft per bird works, extra space prevents problems:
- Reduces pecking order aggression
- Allows better air circulation
- Makes cleaning easier
- Provides room for future flock expansion
Coop Design Considerations
Ventilation Requirements
Proper airflow prevents respiratory issues. Include:
- 1 sq ft of permanent ventilation per bird
- Windows with hardware cloth protection
- Ridge vents or soffit vents
Roosting Bars
Chickens need 8-12 inches of roost space each. For 10 birds:
- Provide 8-10 linear feet of roosting space
- Place bars 2-3 feet off the ground
- Use 2×4 lumber with rounded edges
Nesting Boxes
You need fewer nests than chickens:
- 1 box per 3-4 hens (3 boxes for 10 chickens)
- 12x12x12 inch dimensions work well
- Place in darkest part of coop
Learn more about training chickens to use nesting boxes.
Run Space Requirements
The outdoor run is just as important as the coop:
| Activity Level | Space per Bird | Total for 10 Chickens |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 10 sq ft | 100 sq ft |
| Comfortable | 15 sq ft | 150 sq ft |
| Free Range | 25+ sq ft | 250+ sq ft |
For predator protection, use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire. Bury it 12 inches deep around the perimeter.
Climate Considerations
Cold Weather Adjustments
In northern climates:
- Reduce to 3 sq ft per bird for warmth
- Add insulation to walls and roof
- Use the deep litter method
Hot Weather Adaptations
For southern areas:
- Increase to 5 sq ft per bird
- Add shade structures
- Install ventilation fans
Real World Examples
Small Coop (40 sq ft)
A 5×8 foot coop works for 10 standard hens:
- Pros: Cost effective, easier to clean
- Cons: No room for expansion
- Best for: Mild climates with large run
Medium Coop (60 sq ft)
A 6×10 foot coop offers more comfort:
- Pros: Better air circulation
- Cons: More expensive to build
- Best for: Most backyard flocks
Large Coop (80+ sq ft)
An 8×10 foot coop provides luxury:
- Pros: Room for future chickens
- Cons: Requires more land
- Best for: Serious chicken keepers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating space needs: Chickens grow larger than chicks
- Poor ventilation: Leads to respiratory diseases
- Inadequate predator protection: Raccoons can reach through small gaps
- Wrong roost placement: Don’t put over nesting boxes
For more tips, see our guide on introducing chickens to a new coop.
Additional Resources
For more information, check these authoritative sources: