NY S01531

Amends Article 5-K of General Municipal Law to establish authority for municipal governing boards to create and recognize architectural districts in addition to existing historic preservation and zoning powers.

Allows any municipal resident to submit a detailed architectural design plan to the governing board that specifies design characteristics including natural areas, aesthetics, and open spaces, with renderings or drawings showing the proposed district's arrangement and layout.

Requires the governing board to hold a public hearing with notice to the affected community before deciding whether to create and recognize an architectural district.

Mandates that the governing board designate a local agency or department to enforce preservation of any established architectural district.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.