The council voted 5-2 in favor of the measure Tuesday, paving the way for a final reading on the rule in July, clerk's office employees said.

Hens could be permitted, provided that owners keep them in an enclosed area at least 15 feet from the edge of their property, The Denver Post reported Wednesday.

Supporters say having a small number of chickens is a good way for people to harvest healthy eggs while using the birds' waste as compost.

City officials said owners would not be allowed to kill the birds.

Opposing council members Diggs Brown and Wade Troxel said they fear the chickens will causes health problems and add to greenhouse pollution.