Audrey HayesBy Audrey Hayes

Updated November 2026

Barn owl birdhouse plans give you a sturdy, predator-resistant nest box that a barn owl can use for roosting and raising young. This guide covers the key dimensions, a simple cut list, and the build steps. You will end with a box that meets the basic needs of barn owls, which are very different from those of songbirds.

Know What Barn Owls Need Before You Cut

Barn owls nest in dark, quiet, enclosed spaces, and they prefer a large floor area over a tall, narrow cavity. Most builders use a box with a floor of roughly 10 by 16 inches and a height of about 16 to 18 inches. The entrance hole is a horizontal opening, usually about 6 inches high by 6 inches wide, placed near the top of one side. Owls fly in through this hole and do not perch on a landing board, so a small perch is optional.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Birdhouses with License Plate Roof Plans for Backyard Builders (2026).

Because barn owls are large, a box that is too small will cause them to ignore it. Stick close to the published dimensions rather than shrinking the plan to save wood.

Cut List and Materials

Use 3/4-inch exterior plywood or rough-sawn cedar for all panels. Plywood is stable and easy to cut, while cedar resists rot. Avoid treated lumber, which can release chemicals harmful to birds. Typical pieces include:

Part Quantity Approximate Size
Front and back 2 16 in × 22 in (tall side extends over the roof)
Sides 2 10 in × 16 in
Floor 1 10 in × 16 in
Roof 1 12 in × 18 in

Confirm all measurements against your chosen plan before cutting, because published designs vary slightly in height and width.

Build Steps

  1. Cut all panels to size with a table saw or circular saw, using a square guide to keep edges true.
  2. Drill the entrance hole in the front panel, or cut a 6 by 6 inch opening near the top. Keep the bottom edge of the hole at least 12 inches above the floor.
  3. Drill four to six 1/4-inch drainage holes in the floor and four ventilation holes near the top of the sides.
  4. Attach the sides to the floor with exterior screws, then add the back panel. Pre-drill every screw to prevent splitting.
  5. Attach the front panel, leaving the top edge open for a cleanout door or a hinged roof.
  6. Fix the roof with a slight overhang on all sides, and seal the seams with exterior caulk. Leave the interior unfinished so the wood stays rough and the owls can climb out.

Mounting and Placement

Mount the box 12 to 20 feet high on a barn wall, tree trunk or pole, facing an open field if possible. Choose a spot with a clear flight path and avoid direct afternoon sun. Position the box so the entrance faces away from prevailing winds.

Common Mistakes

  • Using a box that is too small. Barn owls need the floor area described above.
  • Placing the entrance too low, which lets predators reach in.
  • Skipping drainage holes, which lets rain pool on the floor.
  • Adding a perch that is too large, since it can attract predators without helping the owls.
  • Painting or staining the interior, which can release fumes.
  • Exterior-rated wood screws hold panels together without rusting. View on Amazon
  • A combination square helps you mark square cuts and check panels before assembly. View on Amazon
  • A cordless drill with a bit set makes quick work of pilot holes and drainage holes. View on Amazon

FAQ

What size should a barn owl box be?

Most plans use a floor of about 10 by 16 inches and an interior height of 16 to 18 inches. The entrance is typically a 6-inch opening placed near the top.

Do barn owls need a perch?

No. Barn owls fly directly into the box, so a perch is optional and can attract predators if it is large.

Where should I mount the box?

Place it 12 to 20 feet high on a barn wall, tree or pole, in an open area with a clear flight path and shade from afternoon sun.

Conclusion

Barn owl birdhouse plans work best when you follow the box size and entrance placement closely. Build with exterior-grade wood, add drainage and ventilation, and mount the box high in an open spot. A well-built box gives barn owls a safe place to roost and nest. For smaller species, you can compare designs like the Screech Owl Birdhouse Plans: Free Cut List and Build Steps or the Large Birdhouse Plans Free: 4 Builds for Owls, Kestrels and Wood Ducks.

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Audrey Hayes

About Audrey Hayes

Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our woodworking guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.