Number of chickens per nest box?

[MamaSteph]

From what I've read here, the rule is 2-3 chickens per nest box. However, most of the coops I've seen around here are for relatively small numbers of chickens (20 or less). We are planning to build a coop with a capacity of 35-40 layers. Do I really need between 12-20 nest boxes? What do those of you with 30+ chickens have for chicken to nest box ratios?

 

[digitS']

I've never had 30+ layers but I was just reading this page:

Poultry Science, Mississippi State University

"One nest 14 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 16 inches deep is needed for each four hens."

Stephen's digits

edited to say: Even with just a few hens, it is a good idea to have a minimum of 2 nestboxes. That will take some of the competition off even tho' 3 or 4 hens will still want to lay in the same nest.