10 Portable Chicken Coop Ideas for Urban Homesteaders

Are you ready to take your urban homesteading to the next level? Portable chicken coops are a fantastic solution for city dwellers looking to raise chickens without sacrificing space or convenience.

We have 10 coops designed to be lightweight, mobile, and easy to assemble, making them perfect for small backyards or even apartment living. You can pick from –

1. Wheeled A-frame coop
2. Repurposed garden cart coop
3. Modular PVC pipe coop
4. Converted playhouse coop
5. Bicycle trailer coop
6. Folding pallet coop
7. Upcycled furniture coop
8. Pop-up tent coop
9. Lightweight plastic barrel coop
10. Vertical stack coop

Remember, whichever design you choose, always prioritize your chickens’ safety, comfort, and health. More details? Let’s dive in!

10 Portable Chicken Coop Ideas

Are you ready to take your urban homesteading to the next level? Let’s explore 10 creative and practical portable chicken coop ideas –

1. Wheeled A-frame Coop

The wheeled A-frame coop is a simple yet effective design that allows you to easily move your chickens to new grazing spots. This coop is perfect for small to medium flocks and can be customized with nesting boxes and perches.

Steps to Build:

1. Construct a sturdy A-frame structure using lightweight wood.
2. Attach large wheels at one end of the coop.
3. Install a handle on the opposite side for easy maneuverability.
4. Add a hinged door, nesting boxes, and perches as needed.
5. Cover the frame with chicken wire or hardware cloth for protection.

2. Repurposed Garden Cart Coop

Transform an old garden cart into a mobile coop by adding a secure enclosure on top. This idea is great for urban settings or small backyards, where space is limited.

Steps to Build:

1. Secure the base of the garden cart with hardware cloth to prevent predators.
2. Build a lightweight enclosure on top of the cart using wood or metal.
3. Add a small ramp for easy access.
4. Include nesting boxes and a perch inside the enclosure.
5. Use the cart’s wheels to move the coop around your yard.

3. Modular PVC Pipe Coop

Lightweight and easy to assemble, a modular PVC pipe coop is perfect for those who want a portable option without the hassle of heavy lifting.

Steps to Build:

1. Create a rectangular frame using PVC pipes and connectors.
2. Cover the frame with chicken wire or mesh.
3. Add a tarp roof to protect your chickens from the elements.
4. Install a door for access and secure it with a latch.
5. Disassemble and reassemble the coop as needed for storage or transport.

Related Article: DIY PVC Chicken Feeder!

4. Converted Playhouse Coop

Give an old playhouse a new lease on life by converting it into a chicken coop on wheels. This spacious coop provides excellent shelter for your flock.

Steps to Build:

1. Add a door and windows to the playhouse for ventilation.
2. Mount the playhouse on a sturdy platform with wheels.
3. Secure the structure with hardware cloth to protect against predators.
4. Include nesting boxes and perches inside the playhouse.
5. Attach a handle for easy movement.

5. Bicycle Trailer Coop

For the truly mobile chicken keeper, a bicycle trailer coop is a fun and unique option. This design is ideal for small flocks and short distances.

Steps to Build:

1. Attach a lightweight coop structure to a bicycle trailer.
2. Ensure proper ventilation by adding windows or vents.
3. Secure the coop with latches and locks.
4. Include a small door for easy access.
5. Test the trailer for stability before transporting your chickens.

6. Folding Pallet Coop

The folding pallet coop is a cost-effective solution that can be easily transported and stored. It is perfect for temporary or seasonal use.

Steps to Build:

1. Construct a basic coop frame from reclaimed pallets.
2. Hinge the sides of the coop to allow for folding.
3. Attach wheels to the base for mobility.
4. Add a roof and secure the coop with hardware cloth.
5. Fold the coop for storage when not in use.

7. Upcycled Furniture Coop

Turn that old dresser or cabinet into a chic, portable chicken coop. This option is both stylish and practical.

Steps to Build:

1. Remove any drawers or shelves from the furniture.
2. Add ventilation by cutting openings and covering them with mesh.
3. Mount the furniture on wheels for easy movement.
4. Secure doors with latches to keep predators out.
5. Add nesting boxes and perches inside the coop.

8. Pop-up Tent Coop

A pop-up tent coop offers quick setup and portability, making it ideal for temporary housing or on-the-go chicken keepers.

Steps to Build:

1. Set up a large pop-up tent and reinforce it with chicken wire.
2. Add a floor to the tent using a tarp or other sturdy material.
3. Secure the tent to the ground with stakes or weights.
4. Include a door for access and ensure the tent is well-ventilated.
5. Fold and store the tent when not in use.

9. Lightweight Plastic Barrel Coop

A plastic barrel can be transformed into a portable chicken coop that’s both durable and easy to move.

Steps to Build:

1. Cut openings in the barrel for doors and ventilation.
2. Attach wheels or handles for easy mobility.
3. Secure the door with a latch to keep chickens safe.
4. Add a perch and nesting area inside the barrel.
5. Position the coop in a shaded area to keep it cool.

10. Vertical Stack Coop

The vertical stack coop is a space-saving solution that’s perfect for urban environments. This design allows you to house multiple chickens in a compact space.

Steps to Build:

1. Construct a multi-level frame using lightweight materials like PVC or wood.
2. Mount the structure on wheels or a mobile base.
3. Create individual enclosures on each level with mesh or wire.
4. Add doors to each level for easy access.
5. Include perches and nesting boxes in each enclosure.

Related Read: Building Your Own Portable Chicken Coop

See the video to get a more clear insight into the portable chicken coop.

FAQs

Would love to learn more about urban homesteads and portable chicken coops? Here’s your answer!

Why are portable coops ideal for urban homesteaders?

Portable coops are perfect for urban homesteaders because they save space, are easy to move, and can be adjusted to different environments, like small backyards or patios.

Are portable chicken coops secure from predators?

Most portable coops are designed with secure enclosures, like chicken wire or hardware cloth, to protect chickens from predators while still being easy to move.

How do I move a heavy portable coop?

For heavier portable coops, like the converted playhouse coop, adding large wheels and handles will make it easier to move around your yard.

How can I make my portable coop more comfortable for chickens?

Include features like nesting boxes, perches, and proper ventilation in your portable coop to ensure your chickens are comfortable and healthy.

Can portable coops accommodate larger flocks?

Some portable coops, like the vertical stack coop, are designed to house multiple chickens in a compact space, making them suitable for larger flocks in urban settings.

Conclusion

Portable chicken coops are great for urban homesteaders. They are easy to move. You can maximize your space with them. There are different designs like wheeled A-frames and repurposed garden carts, each with unique benefits.

You can build a portable coop that suits your needs. Get creative and give your chickens a safe and comfortable home. Start your urban homesteading journey with these portable coop ideas today!