Without this code, the application of the standard state building codes may make the rehabilitation of historic buildings prohibitively expensive or more difficult. While the legislation requiring that cities and villages have historic preservation ordinances does not specify the contents of the ordinance, it is advisable that cities and villages consider following these content requirements so the ordinance can be certified and the community can take advantage of the benefits of certification. A CLG may apply for matching grants for eligible projects such as identifying and evaluating significant historic properties or preparing nominations to the state and national registers of historic places. CLGs may also permit use of the Historic Building Code for locally designated historic buildings. The state historic preservation officer must be notified of any proposed action which would affect any historic property.
School boards have similar duties.
If a city, village, town, or county orders the demolition or receives an application for the demolition of a historic building, or if the municipality intends to raze a municipally owned historic building, the municipality must notify the state historical society. No demolition may occur for 30 days after this notice is given. During this 30 day period, the state historical society must have access to the historic building to create or preserve a historic record. If cities, villages, towns, and counties lease a historic property to another person, the lease must include provisions to protect the historic character and qualities of that property. Finally, certain archeological sites and historic properties open to the public are exempt from general property taxes.