Pallet Chicken Coop Under $200: 3 Builds + Materials List That Wow

ByGold Cochin

We’re talking sturdy, doable chicken housing on a dime. These builds prove you don’t need a fancy shed to keep happy cluckers. FYI, your evenings just got a lot more productive and a lot funnier.

1. The Quick-P setup: Pallet Coop That Pops

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This one is all about speed without skimping on safety. You’ll stack pallets, add a sturdy wire mesh, and boom—coop in a weekend. Seriously, it’s shockingly mogelijk to pull off with basic tools and a little elbow grease.

Why it’s awesome

Fast assembly, light footprint, and big return in egg days. It’s great for beginners who want to see results fast without breaking the bank.

Materials

  • Repurposed pallets (free or cheap)
  • Hardware cloth or welded wire mesh (1/2″ to 1″ squares)
  • Plywood scraps for a roof and door
  • Hinges, latches, and a small door catch
  • Roofing materials (asphalt shingles or metal panel)

Tips: reinforce corners with scrap lumber, and add a small vermin-proof skirting. The goal is simple: keepNA chickens safe and cozy. When to use: perfect for a starter flock or as a temporary run-in while you plan a bigger setup.

2. The All-Weather Clamp-Top: Weatherproof Pallet Haven

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Weatherproofing is the secret sauce here. It’s a practical, no-nonsense design that keeps rain and drafts out while staying affordable. Trust me, your chickens will sleep better than some humans.

Key elements

  • Solid pallet frame with extra cross supports
  • Sloped roof for drainage
  • Vent openings with adjustable covers

Why it stands out: a little extra roof overhang and proper sealing means fewer cold nights and fewer mud nests inside the coop. FYI, ducks might get jealous of how dry the coop stays.

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Materials

  • Sturdy pallets
  • Plywood for a hinged front and roost board
  • Corrugated plastic or metal roofing
  • Weather-resistant sealant or paint
  • Plexiglass or shade cloth for vent covers

Notes: add a removable tray or drop-in litter to keep cleaning quick. Use when you’re dealing with wet climates or damp basements—okay, not basements, but you get the idea.

3. The Space-Saver Deluxe: Tiny Pallet Coop for Small Flocks

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Small footprint, big personality. This design squeezes a few hens into a compact footprint without feeling cramped. It’s the “I live in a chic tiny house” vibe, but for cluckers.

Why it’s awesome

Efficient use of space and materials means less waste and less fatigue. It’s ideal if you’ve got a tiny yard or want a portable setup for farmers markets and keeps.

Materials

  • Thin but sturdy pallets to minimize bulk
  • Roost board and perch height measured for your birds
  • Lightweight hinge-and-latch combo
  • Roll-out tray for easy cleaning
  • Lightweight but sturdy wire mesh

Tip: skip heavy doors and use a sturdy curtain or lightweight panel as a front access. This saves weight and makes maintenance a breeze. When to use: perfect for a few birds, or if you’re moving the coop around your yard.

4. The Predator-Proof Swing-Top: Safety-First Pallet Shield

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Security is king here. If you’ve got critters creeping around at night, this design prioritizes predator protection with smart, simple tweaks. It’s not fancy, but it delivers peace of mind.

What makes it special

  • Locking access doors
  • Raised coop off the ground with a skirt
  • Sliding weatherproof roof panel for quick checks

Why you’ll love it: fewer nighttime prowlers, easier access for daily checks, and a sturdy structure that won’t crumble with a stiff wind. Seriously, this one feels like the bodyguard of chicken coops.

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Materials

  • Strong pallets and extra studs
  • Heavy-duty hinges and latch
  • Wire mesh for a raised run
  • Skirt material to seal the base
  • Gas struts or simple prop rods for the swing roof

Bottom line: predator-proofing buys real sleep. Use when you’ve got hungry raccoons or foxes in the area and you want a durable long-term home.

5. The Seasonal Flex Coop: Adaptable Pallet System for All Weather

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This build shines because it adapts. You can mix-and-match panels for summer shade and winter windbreaks. It’s modular, approachable, and you can grow with your flock over time.

Why it rocks

  • Modular panels for customization
  • Seasonal adjustments with removable curtains
  • Easy expansion by adding panels or a larger run

What to expect: a flexible home that grows with you. FYI, this means your investment stretches further as your needs change and your hens multiply.

Materials

  • Modular pallet frames
  • Removable panels with hinges
  • Shade cloth or thin plastic panels for summer
  • Clear plastic for winter sun
  • Buffer strips and silicone sealant for weather sealing

Note: plan for airflow and vent gaps so you don’t cook the birds in summer or frost them in winter. Use when you want a future-proof setup that won’t require a full rebuild in a few seasons.

Conclusion: You’ve got three strong builds now, each with a different vibe and a clear materials list. FYI, you can mix elements from multiple layouts to tailor a coop that fits your yard, budget, and flock. Trust me, your chickens will thank you with eggs and attitude.

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