Backyard Chicken Setup Checklist
Use this checklist before buying birds. It is easier to fix rules, space, water, and predator problems before the flock is already in the yard.
Before buying
Check local rules, flock limits, roosters, setbacks, permits, HOA limits, and whether the yard has a practical coop location.
Before birds arrive
Have the coop, run, feeder, waterer, bedding, feed storage, predator latches, and shade plan ready.
First week
Watch water use, feed waste, bird behavior, latches, and whether the run stays dry.
Setup list
- Rules confirmed.
- Flock size chosen.
- Coop and run assembled before birds arrive.
- Water plan tested.
- Feed stored in a sealed container.
- Predator latches checked at night.
- Heat, cold, and mud plans reviewed.