In each case when an airport hazard area exists in connection with a publicly-owned airport, the Department, on behalf of this State, shall upon request of the political subdivision or subdivisions owning or operating such airport adopt, administer, and enforce, under the police power and in the manner and upon the conditions hereinafter prescribed, airport zoning regulations for such airport hazard area, which regulations may divide such area into zones, and, within such zones, specify the land uses permitted and regulate and restrict the height to which structures and trees may be erected or allowed to grow.