The purpose of the commission is to safeguard the heritage of Delaware City by protecting and preserving buildings and sites within an area which reflects elements of the city's cultural, social, political and architectural heritage; to promote the educational, cultural and economic value to the public by maintaining the area as a landmark to the city's history and architecture.

Ordinance No. 4014, enacted in 1985, now chapter 49 of the Code of the City of Delaware City, established a historic preservation commission, and specifically defines the requirements for review and administration of historic regulations and guidelines.