New to Chickens

[Bellbebo]

I've never had backyard chickens, and am trying to learn as much as possible before I buy my first flock. Need to get a coop in place first - does anyone have recommendations for plans for coops that would house 3 - 5 chickens? I have limited space and less knowledge, so prefer to start small

 

[scratch'n'peck]

Oh my goodness, have you seen the coop pages on this site yet? Go to this link below and click on the small coop option. There are so many plans that it may make you dizzy, but it is the best place to start:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/2/Coops

 

[Michael OShay]

There are also loads of chicken coop plans available at http://www.pinterest.com/amyelizabeth612/chicken-coop-building-plans/, http://freebies.about.com/od/free-plans/tp/free-chicken-coop-plans.htm, and http://www.barngeek.com/free-chicken-coop-plans.html
Also, if you don't mind spending more, Murray McMurray has a fairly large selection of already built coops/runs that can be shipped to your residence. You can see them at http://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/coops_pens_cages_and_fencing.html
Just remember, whatever coop and run you build or get, you need a minimum coop floor area of 4 sq. ft. per chicken, and a minimum run floor area of 10 sq. ft. per chicken (more is always better as overcrowded chickens can get aggressive). For 5 chickens will need at least 20 sq. ft. of coop floor area and 50 sq. ft. of run area (again more is better). Good luck in building your coop and getting your flock.