Chickens may soon be roosting in some backyards in Iowa City.

The City Council, during a work session Monday, moved ahead with the possibility of allowing residents to keep a chickens. The council will take up the issue at a future meeting.

Under suggested rules, residents could have up to four hens, but no roosters. Chickens could not be slaughtered in the city and the eggs could not be sold. Residents would need a permit and would have to notify neighbors.

Four of the seven council members expressed an interest in allowing chickens.

But Mayor Regenia Bailey opposes the idea. She says organic and fresh eggs already are available, and allowing some to raise chickens doesn't match the expectations of most people who live in the city.