A proposal to make a north-east town-centre a conservation area will be considered by councillors next week.
The Fraserburgh scheme would prevent owners from radically changing the appearance of buildings without permission from the local authority.
The council would also be able to issue repair notices to people whose properties have been allowed to fall into disrepair.
The proposed conservation area would cover Broad Street, Shore Street and High Street and include “significant” buildings such as the C-listed Dalrymple Hall and B-listed former police station.
Banff and Buchan councillors will discuss the plan when they meet for their first area committee of 2015 on Tuesday.
Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure chief, Stephen Archer, says approval would show the local authority is serious about preserving the heritage of Fraserburgh.
In a report to the committee, he said: “The protection of a conservation area does not end with its designation, but rather demonstrates the commitment to positive action for safeguarding and enhancing its character and appearance.”
Funding for the programme is being sought from Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
If approved, the owners of buildings within the boundary will be encouraged to apply for grants towards the maintenance their properties.