Quail coops near cedar chip mulch landscaping

[Mptron]

We have 2 quail coops we built that are 4 feet off the ground. We had intentions to landscape under and around the coops. Can I use cedar mulch chips on the ground (not in the coop) under the coops? Or will ANY exposure to cedar cause issues? We are newbies just learning the ropes. I understand cedar shavings inside their coop causes issues and that’s a huge no-no. But I didn’t know if it would cause the same issues if it was just near their coop? I have attached a very poorly drawn picture for reference of our plan.

Thanks!

 

[Nabiki]

I think it depends on how strong the fumes are from the cedar. If the mulch is old and most of the smell is gone, it will probably be okay, but if they're fresh cedar chips, I wouldn't do it.