Discover the Magic of Backyard Chicken Keeping: Everything You Need to Build a Happy, Healthy Coop Life!
Thinking about raising chickens at home? A backyard chicken coop for beginners is the perfect place to start.
Urban and suburban chicken keeping is on the rise — and for good reason. Fresh eggs, natural pest control, and a deeper connection to your food make chickens one of the most rewarding additions to any urban homestead.
But before you build your flock, it’s important to get the basics right — starting with the right chicken coop. This beginner-friendly guide walks you through everything you need to know to create a safe, functional, and enjoyable setup for both you and your hens.
Why Keep Backyard Chickens?
Raising chickens at home provides more than just fresh eggs. Here’s why more people are turning their backyards into micro-flocks:
- Farm-fresh eggs daily with rich yolks and no additives
- Sustainable waste management — chickens love table scraps
- Natural fertilizer from nitrogen-rich droppings
- Pest control — chickens help manage insects and weeds
- Connection to your food and the rhythms of nature
Urban gardening meets urban homesteading — and the chicken coop is at the heart of it.
Know Your Space + Local Regulations
Before you order a coop or bring home hens, check these two things:
1. City Ordinances
Most cities allow 3–6 hens, but may restrict:
- Roosters (due to noise)
- Minimum distance from property lines
- Type/size of coop allowed
- Permits or registration
Check your city or county website for backyard poultry regulations.
2. Yard Layout
Chickens don’t need much space, but they do need enough to stay happy and healthy. As a rule of thumb:
- 3–5 sq. ft. per chicken inside the coop
- 8–10 sq. ft. per chicken in an outdoor run
Have limited space? Portable coops or smaller setups like our Bungalow Hen House are ideal for urban yards and patios.
Choosing the Right Chicken Coop
Your coop is more than a house — it’s protection, comfort, and a foundation for healthy hens. Here’s what to look for:
✔️ Durability
Urban Garden Workshop coops are made with sustainably sourced redwood, known for its weather resistance and natural insect repellence.
✔️ Ventilation
Chickens are sensitive to heat and moisture. Good airflow keeps the coop dry, reduces ammonia, and prevents respiratory issues.
✔️ Access & Cleaning
Look for:
- Easy-open doors
- Removable roosts and trays
- Predator-proof latches
Tip: Our coop designs prioritize function without sacrificing rustic aesthetics — see examples in our Gallery.
✔️ Custom Options
Need an extra nesting box or a longer run? Urban Garden Workshop offers custom builds tailored to your flock size, climate, and space.
Predator-Proofing Your Coop
Even in the city, predators are a real threat — raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs. A secure coop is a must.
Our coops include:
- 1/2″ hardware cloth (stronger than chicken wire)
- Predator-proof locks
- Elevated frames (to prevent tunneling)
- Optional enclosed runs for added safety
Pro tip: Don’t leave food or scraps in the coop overnight — this attracts unwanted visitors.
Understanding Egg Production
Happy hens lay more eggs. Here’s what you can expect:
| Breed | Eggs/Week | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Red | 5–6 | Hardy and consistent layers |
| Plymouth Rock | 4–5 | Friendly & cold-hardy |
| Australorp | 5–6 | Quiet, great for beginners |
Factors that affect egg production:
- Daylight hours (hens need ~14 hrs)
- Feed quality
- Stress levels
- Age (hens lay less as they get older)
Want consistent laying year-round? Consider adding a solar-powered light source in winter or using high-protein supplements during molting.
Daily & Weekly Maintenance Tips
Chickens are relatively low-maintenance, but consistency is key.
Daily Tasks:
- Check feed & water
- Collect eggs
- Visual health check
Weekly Tasks:
- Replace bedding
- Spot-clean droppings
- Secure coop doors and latches
Monthly: Deep clean nesting boxes and roosts. Our coops feature removable trays for quick cleanouts — keeping both you and your flock happy.
Family-Friendly Benefits
Backyard chickens are a great way to teach kids responsibility and respect for living things. Many of our customers describe their coops as “living classrooms” — where kids can:
- Gather eggs
- Learn about ecosystems
- Build empathy through animal care
Plus, chickens make surprisingly charming pets — each with their own personality.
Our Recommendation: Bungalow Hen House
If you’re just getting started with a backyard chicken coop for beginners, we recommend our Bungalow Hen House — a handcrafted, weather-resistant coop designed for urban flocks of up to 6 hens.
Features include:
- Redwood frame and roof
- Predator-proof mesh
- Easy-open access doors
- Rustic charm that enhances your outdoor space
Ready to Get Started?
Still have questions about choosing the right coop or getting started with backyard chickens?
We’re happy to help you plan the perfect setup for your space and flock.