elevated coops/coops on stilts

[Mary]

What are the rules concerning a coop built up off the ground? How far will a chicken be willing to walk up a ramp? I posted about the 3x10 coop earlier, and was thinking of elevating part of it and letting them have the under part for more shade/shelter. The roof would overhang a bit too. I need to figure out what I want, since my DH will be willing to help this weekend, and that may be my only chance at getting his help.
THanks!!

 

[bayourouge]

i have 2) 3 1/2 x 10 breeding pens for bantam trios that i like alot. i put an elevated coop so they'd have the full 10ft of run. i put the 3x3 coop with roost and nest box about 2 1/2 ft off the ground. they seem happy.

 

[jimnjay]

I have several 20 inches off the ground. I love it because it gives them someplace to get out of the sun and expands the run area. There is a photo of my latest one in the stickyed post for coop designs. I use a 12" wide piece of plywood or 1x12 if I have it and put the rubbermaid non slip shelf liner on it. They have no problem getting up and down the ramp.