Contrary to what a Stone Harbor spouter says, municipalities can

Stone Harbor - Contrary to what a Stone Harbor spouter says, municipalities can prevent the tearing down of old homes by writing zoning laws that cover historic properties. They can legally protect buildings built before a specific date. Generally, these historic district laws only apply to the facade, and owners can do what they will with the interior. Charleston, S.C. is a fantastic example of how zoning laws like this work and preserve beautiful buildings.