A well-placed coop means healthier hens and much less maintenance. Here's what to look at before choosing the spot.
Sun and shade
Hens love morning light but don't cope well with high heat. Ideally: an opening facing south-east, with a shady corner in the afternoon (tree, hedge or run roof).
Wind and rain
Shield the entrance from the prevailing winds (often from the west in France). Ground that drains well avoids mud and foot problems: if your land is damp, choose a coop on legs.
Close enough to the house
You'll go out every day to collect the eggs, top up the water and close the pop hole. A coop a few steps from the house is a well-kept coop.
The neighbours
Keep a reasonable distance from your neighbours' windows. Some towns set rules (distances, number of animals): check with your town hall.
Declaring to the town hall
In France, anyone who keeps poultry, even a few hens for eggs, must declare it to their town hall. It's simple and free (Cerfa form no. 15472).
Easy-care ground
In the run, a grassy area plus a patch of earth or dry sand where they love to fluff up their feathers is perfect. Remember to move small runs from time to time so the grass can grow back.