Raising chickens doesn’t have to be expensive, and neither does building a chicken run. A good run keeps your chickens safe while giving them space to roam. Whether you’re using repurposed materials or simple designs, here are 20 budget-friendly DIY chicken run ideas to consider.
1. Basic Wire Fence Run
Use wooden stakes and chicken wire to create a simple enclosed space. It’s affordable and easy to build.
2. PVC Pipe Chicken Run
Lightweight and inexpensive, PVC pipes can be assembled into a sturdy frame and covered with wire mesh.
3. Wood Pallet Run
Repurpose free wooden pallets to create fencing for your chicken run. Secure them with nails and reinforce with wire mesh.
4. Dog Kennel Chicken Run
Convert an old dog kennel into a chicken run by adding a roof and extra wire fencing.
5. A-Frame Chicken Run
Construct a triangular A-frame using wooden beams and cover it with wire mesh. It’s sturdy and portable.
6. Recycled Trampoline Run
Use an old trampoline frame as a base for a chicken run. Just add wire mesh and a cover for protection.
7. Cattle Panel Hoop Run
Bend cattle panels into a hoop shape and cover with wire mesh for a spacious, affordable run.
8. Portable Chicken Tractor Run
Build a lightweight, moveable run using wood and wire. This allows fresh grazing areas for your chickens.
9. Reinforced Garden Trellis Run
Use old garden trellises to create a sturdy fence, adding wire mesh for extra security.
10. Plastic Pipe Chicken Run
Similar to PVC, but using flexible plastic pipes for an easy-to-assemble, low-cost frame.
11. Tarp-Covered Run
Use wood and mesh to build a simple run, then add a tarp roof for shade and weather protection.
12. Hinged Cover Run
Create a small run with a hinged wire lid that can be lifted for easy access.
13. Greenhouse Frame Chicken Run
Use an old greenhouse frame and replace the plastic with chicken wire for a durable enclosure.
14. Wire Tunnel Chicken Run
Make a long, narrow run using wire mesh bent into tunnel shapes, great for expanding space.
15. Upcycled Window Frame Run
Use discarded window frames for walls and secure them with wire mesh for a unique and cost-effective run.
16. Fence-Attached Run
Attach a simple wire mesh enclosure to an existing backyard fence to save on materials.
17. Tree Branch and Wire Run
Use sturdy branches for a rustic, natural-looking run structure with chicken wire for safety.
18. Raised Bed Chicken Run
Turn an old raised garden bed into a small chicken run by adding mesh walls and a cover.
19. Bamboo Chicken Run
Use cut bamboo poles to create a frame and attach wire mesh for a durable and eco-friendly run.
20. Old Shed Conversion Run
Repurpose part of an old shed by adding a fenced-in area, providing shade and protection.
These cheap DIY chicken runs offer safe and affordable options for keeping your flock happy. With a little creativity, you can build a functional run without spending a fortune!
