The intent of this chapter is to enable municipalities and counties acting individually or in concert to preserve and enhance their present advantages, to overcome their present handicaps, and to prevent or minimize such future problems as may be foreseen. To accomplish this intent local governments are encouraged to plan for future development; to prepare, adopt, and from time to time revise, a comprehensive plan to guide future local development; and to participate in a regional planning organization to coordinate local planning and development with that of the surrounding region. As aids in the implementation of the comprehensive plan local governments are encouraged to adopt and enforce appropriate land use controls, and cooperate with other governmental authorities.

The provisions of this chapter are declared to be necessary for the promotion, protection, and improvement of the public health, safety, comfort, good order, appearance, convenience, prosperity, morals, and general welfare.

Any county or municipality may, but shall not be required to, exercise any of the powers granted by this chapter. Whenever such a governing authority shall elect to exercise any of the powers granted by this chapter, such powers shall be exercised in the manner hereinafter prescribed.