Temporary Chicken run

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Looking to create a safe and secure space for your flock that is outside the coop? If so, there is a simple shortcut that you can use today. A DIY temporary chicken run will help you give some outdoor space for your chickens without having to build a permanent setup.

Whether you’re new to raising chickens. or just need a quick solution, this guide has you covered.

When we first got our chickens, I planned to let them free range. Many of our neighbors did this, so I assumed it would work for us, too. What I didn’t realize is that chickens love to scratch and leave their droppings everywhere—without any consideration for you or your yard.

They quickly found their way into our flower beds, digging up mulch and making a mess. And the yard? It soon became scattered with tiny manure piles, making it tricky to walk around without stepping in something.

I still wanted my chickens to enjoy fresh grass, but I didn’t want the whole yard turned into a mess. Chicken tractors were an option, but I needed something quicker and easier.

That’s when I got the idea: set up a temporary spot for them to scratch using some fencing and stakes. Simple, easy, and it keeps everyone happy.

What’s So Great About a Temporary Chicken Run?

If you want a simple way to give your chickens fresh grass without turning your whole yard upside down, a temporary chicken run can really help. Here’s why:

• It lets your chickens snack on grass and bugs while keeping your flowers, fruits, and vegetables safe.
• You can park the run next to the garden so your hens help out with pest control, but without the worry of them digging up your seedlings.
• It keeps your flock away from the road, driveway, and any pets or young children.
• If your yard gets muddy and overly wet after a rain, just pick up the run and move it to a drier spot—less mess in the coop and cleaner eggs for you.
• It’s an affordable setup since you don’t have to invest in anything permanent.
• You get flexibility and more control, which makes it easier to look after your chickens and your yard.

With a run like this, you get all the perks of letting your birds roam—with a lot less hassle for you.

Why do chickens need a run?

A chicken run is a simple way to keep your flock safe from predators and stop them from tearing up your flower beds, garden, or even hanging out (and making messes) on your porch. It gives your chickens a safe little space to roam, scratch around, and look for bugs—without you having to stress about where they’ll wander off next. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing they won’t find their way onto the road or into your neighbor’s yard.

How to DIY a Temporary Chicken Run

One of the best things about this project is how easy it is to do on your own. As someone who prefers simpler solutions, I love that I don’t need to wrangle anyone else for help. I use lightweight garden stakes and a hammer, so there’s no heavy lifting or swinging a sledgehammer—just a few easy steps, and it’s done.

Step #1. Gather Supplies

Before you get started, be sure to have the following supplies on hand:

• A roll of chicken wire: This will be your fencing. Measure your area and grab a little extra to be safe.
• Heavy-duty zip ties: Use these to secure the chicken wire to your fence posts.
• Metal garden fence posts: At least 4, and lightweight ones are easiest to handle on your own.
• Hammer: This is all you need for driving the posts into the ground—no sledgehammer required.

You probably have most of these items lying around, but if not, check out yard sales or your local hardware store. A lot of times, neighbors are willing to lend a hand or share supplies, too.

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Step #2. Mark Out Your Space

Next, decide where you want your run. I like to just “eyeball” the shape, but if you want straight lines and corners, use some string and garden flags or stakes to outline the spot. This helps you see exactly how big your chicken run will be and if it fits where you want it.

Tip: Keep the run close to the coop for easy access—and try to pick a spot with a bit of shade if you can.

Step #3. Set Up Fence Posts

Now, put your posts in the ground about 3 feet apart. This spacing keeps things sturdy but easy. Lightweight posts are perfect because you can push them in or give them a tap with your hammer—no need for anything heavy-duty.

Tip: If your ground is hard, water the area a bit before installing the posts. It makes things go much smoother.

Step #4. Attach Chicken Wire

Time for the chicken wire. Unroll it along your marked-out area, wrapping and securing it to the posts with zip ties. Make sure you tug the wire gently so it stays upright and snug.

Tip: Walk the perimeter and look for any gaps, especially at ground level. Even tiny holes can become an escape route.

Step #5. Secure The Base

Fold a few inches of chicken wire under itself along the bottom of your run. This keeps your chickens from sneaking out and deters animals from digging in.

Tip: You can also weigh the wire down with rocks, bricks, or a board if you have a super-adventurous flock.

Step #6. Leave an opening

Don’t forget to plan an entryway for both you and your chickens. I like to use a section of the wire as a pop-open “door” that can be tied closed. Make sure it’s easy for you to get in and out for feeding, cleaning, and care of the flock.

Step #7. Add water

Last but definitely not least, put fresh water in the run. Chickens are good at finding food in the grass, but they’ll need you to bring the water. A rubber bowl or chicken waterer on a block or large rock does the trick—just be sure to change it daily.

Tip: Place your water in a shaded spot so it stays cool and fresh longer, especially on hot days.

Setting up a chicken run is a simple and practical way to help your chickens stay healthy and content. When you pick the right spot, make sure the fencing is secure, add a little shelter, and keep fresh water handy, you’re giving your hens a comfortable place to scratch, wander, and look for bugs.

It’s a good idea to check on your chickens daily and tidy up their space as needed. Moving the run now and then gives them fresh grass and keeps things interesting for the flock. As a bonus, your chickens will help control bugs and pests in your yard, making things easier for you too.

How to Use a Temporary Chicken Run

Using a temporary chicken run is really straightforward. Once it’s set up, it’s time to get your chickens inside. If your birds are used to following you, you might find that simply opening the coop and calling them—maybe shaking a treat jar or offering a handful of scratch—is enough encouragement for them to follow you into the new space. Sometimes, tossing a few treats inside the run can help to tempt even the most stubborn hens to go in.

If the flock hesitates, you can gently herd them by walking behind or to the side of the group, moving slowly and calmly toward the opening. A broom or a big piece of cardboard can help guide them along if they need a little more direction (just stay gentle and patient so no one gets stressed).

Once all your chickens are inside, close up the run and let them settle in. Open the run in the morning to let them enjoy some sunshine and grass, then bring them back to the coop for the night. Every few days, check the grass—when it looks worn down, just lift up the fencing and move everything to a fresh patch. Always make sure your chickens have plenty of shade and clean water so they stay happy and healthy. This simple setup keeps your flock busy and safe, and gives you peace of mind knowing they aren’t making a mess where they shouldn’t.

If you find getting your chickens in is a tall order, you can “connect” your run to the coop door. This tip works great especially in the beginning as your chickens understand the purpose of the run. As they learn you can move the run further away and train them to go inside by using treats and a call to guide them.

FAQ

How do you ensure your run is predator-proof?

To keep predators out, make sure there are no gaps in the chicken wire that could allow them to sneak in. For extra security, bury the bottom edge of the wire into the dirt to prevent digging.

If air predators are a concern, use chicken wire that’s at least 5-6 feet high. If taller fencing isn’t available, you can double up shorter sections by securing them together with zip ties before attaching them to the stakes.

How do you keep the run clean?

Keeping the chicken run clean is important for your flock’s health. Remove droppings and food debris every few days. You can rake everything into a pile and add it to your compost bin.

A temporary run makes cleaning even easier since you can remove the fence, clean the area thoroughly, and set it back up when you’re done. This also helps deter predators and pests.

What’s the best way to move a temporary chicken run?

Moving a temporary run is simple. Start by removing the chicken wire from the stakes and rolling it up. Then, pull up the stakes and relocate them to the new area. Once everything is in place, reattach the chicken wire.

SLCG Pro tip: Choose a new spot with fresh grass and shade to keep your chickens happy and comfortable.

Temporary chicken runs are such a practical and flexible way to keep your chickens happy and safe throughout the day. Whether you’re new to raising chickens or have been at it for years, they make it easy to give your flock fresh grass, protect your garden, and keep them safe from harm.

With just a few basic tools, you can quickly set up a temporary space where your chickens can spend the day, help your garden grow, and even reward you with better eggs. It’s a project worth trying out.

More Chicken Housing Resources:

• Turn an Old Shed into a New Chicken Coop
• How to Build Roosts for Your Coop
• DIY Nesting Boxes for your Coop