how close to fence?

[katiefloy]

Hello

I plan to put my enclosed coop/run along this fence line (after fixing the missing pickets. This is really the only area in our yard with any amount of shade. However, I am debating whether I should put it right next to the fence/trees or a couple feet away. I will be placing hardware cloth around the base about 18" out. The coop and run together are 8x12. I will be enclosing the entire garden area with the pvc fencing once the coop and run are in place. the coop will be on the left side with the run running along the fenceline. The new pvc fence will attach to the coop and run perpendicular. Hopefully that makes sense. I appreciate any input and pros/cons.

 

[ColoradoPip]

I would put it (~3ft) or far enough away that you can get a riding mower between, even if you don't have a riding mower, or another way to look at it would be I'd make it wide enough so that I could bend down and work on the ground without touching the fence or the coop.

The chickens will kick everything and anything out of their coop and it will pile up along the fence, if you don't have any room to get back there, it will get worse. If it's food they kick out, it will get wet, and wet food molds and stinks really really badly. If you leave enough space, it will just spread out, no big deal or easy to scoop.

This will make it much easier to mow, weed, and keep the area clean. I made the mistake of putting a coop too close to a fence and it made for a real pain when I needed to clean that area.

 

[3KillerBs]

Does your town have setback requirements that would affect this? You don't want to have to move things after you get them in place.

I suggest going no closer to the fence than you can walk through comfortably and fit a rake and wheelbarrow/garden cart. You're going to need to clean out debris periodically.

 

[katiefloy]

thank you! this is exactly what i was looking for! the fence isn't at the property line. it was a decorative thing the prior owner installed.

 

[Mtnboomer]

Most riding mowers have a min 42"deck. Thats considered a small rider. They come smaller for sure, but just keep it in mind.

 

[katiefloy]

Most riding mowers have a min 42"deck. Thats considered a small rider. They come smaller for sure, but just keep it in mind.

i won't be using a riding mower back there. i have a push one for small spaces if necessary.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Even though the fence isn't property line (good to know!) it's easier for maintenance if you leave at least enough space for you to get between the coop and fence, in case there's any work to be done.

 

[katiefloy]

Even though the fence isn't property line (good to know!) it's easier for maintenance if you leave at least enough space for you to get between the coop and fence, in case there's any work to be done.

thsnks everyone!