Building the Perfect Horse Barn: What Every Horse Owner Should Know
- sabrina9314
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
At BCG Builders, we know your horses aren’t just livestock — they’re part of the family. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or new to country living, building a quality horse barn is one of the most important investments you can make for your animals and your property.
As a locally owned and operated company based in New Plymouth, Idaho, we specialize in building custom horse barns that are Built Local. Built to Last. Built Better. Here's what to consider when planning your dream barn:
5 Things You Need to Know Before Building a Horse Barn
When it comes to building a horse barn, there’s more to consider than just where the stalls go or how big the roof should be. For most horse owners, this is a dream project — and one that deserves careful planning to get it right.
At BCG Builders, we help residents bring their dream barns to life with a commitment to craftsmanship, honesty, and local expertise. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or just getting started with horses, here's what you need to know before breaking ground on your new horse barn:
1. Know Your Purpose and Plan Accordingly
The first and most important step is understanding exactly what you need your barn to do. Ask yourself:
How many horses will you house now and in the future?
Do you need additional space for equipment, hay, or trailers?
Will your barn include a tack room, wash rack, feed storage, or grooming area?
Are you running a personal stable, or will you board/train horses professionally?
Your answers will directly influence the size, layout, and materials needed. At BCG Builders, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all barns. We sit down with you to plan out the exact structure you need — not just what looks good on paper.
2. Choose the Right Location on Your Property
Where you place your barn matters — a lot. You want a spot that’s functional, accessible, and ideally located for drainage, airflow, and daily operations. Consider the following:
Drainage: Is the site prone to flooding or pooling water? Good grading and elevation are key.
Access: Can large vehicles, trailers, or delivery trucks easily get in and out?
Sunlight and Wind: Proper orientation can help maximize natural light and minimize harsh winds.
Proximity: Is the barn close enough to your home, pastures, or riding arena for convenience?
We help evaluate your property before construction begins so you get the right barn in the right place — without future regrets.
3. Understand Local Zoning, Permits, and Building Codes
You can't just start building — at least, not legally. Every city and county in Idaho and Oregon have zoning regulations and permit requirements for agricultural buildings, even if you’re in a rural area.
You’ll need to consider:
Minimum setbacks from property lines
Utility and septic considerations
Agricultural use exemptions (where applicable)
Restrictions on height or size
At BCG Builders, we handle the red tape for you. We’re experienced with the permitting process across the Treasure Valley and beyond, so you don’t have to worry about missteps that could delay your project or increase costs.
4. Design for Safety, Comfort, and Longevity
A great horse barn isn’t just about aesthetics — it needs to be functional and safe for both horses and humans. Every feature should be designed with care, including:
Ventilation: Proper airflow keeps your horses healthy and helps control moisture and odors.
Lighting: Natural lighting is best, but electrical lighting should be bright, secure, and moisture-resistant.
Flooring: Choose materials that are durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean (like crushed gravel, mats, or concrete with rubber overlays).
Stall Design: Stalls should be appropriately sized, well-ventilated, and built with kick-resistant materials.
Our team walks you through all the small details — from stall spacing to aisle widths — so your barn feels safe, efficient, and easy to maintain for years to come.
5. Think Long-Term: Budget, Expansion, and Custom Features
It’s tempting to build only for what you need right now, but horse barns are long-term investments. Thinking a few years ahead can save you serious time and money down the road.
Some questions to ask:
Will you add more horses in the future?
Do you want the option to expand later?
Should you include plumbing now for a future wash rack or restroom?
What features could improve your daily routine (like automatic waterers, feed doors, or overhangs for shade)?
At BCG Builders, we encourage you to build smart, not just fast. That means factoring in expansion plans, energy efficiency, and low-maintenance materials — all tailored to your property, your budget, and your long-term goals.
Ready to Build Your Dream Barn?
We’re proud to be a locally owned and operated builder in New Plymouth, Idaho, serving the surrounding communities with high-quality, custom-built barns.
At BCG Builders, we handle every step of the project — from planning and permitting to final construction — so you can focus on the reason you started this journey in the first place: your horses.
Let’s Build Something That Lasts.📍 Serving New Plymouth, Treasure Valley, and surrounding areas.📞 Contact us today for FREE quote and consultation.🔗 Visit our gallery or get started now.
