Run Area
200 sq ft
Perimeter
60 ft
Posts
9
Wire Rolls
2
10 sq ft per bird (minimum)
Total Run Area
200 sq ft
Min recommended: 60 sq ft
Perimeter
60 ft
Posts
9
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Result
Area = 20 × 10 = 200 sq ft. Min = 6 × 10 = 60 sq ft. Perimeter = 2(20+10) = 60 ft. Posts = ceil(60/8) + 1 = 9.
Inputs
Result
Area = 30 × 20 = 600 sq ft. Min = 12 × 10 = 120. Perimeter = 100 ft. Posts = ceil(100/8)+1 = 14.
Standard hens need at least 10 square feet of outdoor run space each. Bantams need 8 sq ft, large breeds 12 sq ft, and ducks 15 sq ft. Free-range birds still benefit from a secure run for overnight and predator protection.
| Bird Type | Run Sq Ft/Bird | 6 Birds | 12 Birds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Hen | 10 | 60 sq ft | 120 sq ft |
| Bantam | 8 | 48 sq ft | 96 sq ft |
| Large Breed | 12 | 72 sq ft | 144 sq ft |
| Duck | 15 | 90 sq ft | 180 sq ft |
A chicken run fence should be at least 6 feet tall to prevent most breeds from flying over. Heavy breeds like Orpingtons rarely clear 4 feet, but lighter breeds like Leghorns can easily clear 6 feet without a covered top.
A basic chicken run needs fence posts every 8 feet, welded wire or hardware cloth fencing, at least one gate, and optional predator-proofing with a buried wire apron. Hardware cloth (1/2 inch) is safer than chicken wire against raccoons and hawks.
Divide the perimeter by your post spacing (typically 8 feet) and add 1. A 20×10 ft run has 60 ft perimeter, needing about 8–9 posts at 8 ft spacing. Corner posts should be heavier gauge or larger diameter than line posts.
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Last Updated: Mar 19, 2026
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