§8–104.

    (a)    The legislative body of each local jurisdiction, by local law, may regulate:

        (1)    the construction, reconstruction, alteration, moving, and demolition of sites or structures of historical, archaeological, or architectural significance;

        (2)    the construction, reconstruction, alteration, moving, and demolition of sites and structures within districts; and

        (3)    the appurtenances and environmental settings of sites and structures within the limits of the local jurisdiction.

    (b)    The purpose of a local law adopted under this section is to:

        (1)    safeguard the heritage of the local jurisdiction by preserving sites, structures, or districts that reflect elements of cultural, social, economic, political, archaeological, or architectural history;

        (2)    stabilize and improve the property values of those sites, structures, or districts;

        (3)    foster civic beauty;

        (4)    strengthen the local economy; and

        (5)    promote the preservation and appreciation of those sites, structures, and districts for the education and welfare of the residents of each local jurisdiction.