Process for Application for Demolition
Historic District Commission
A Step-By-Step Guide
The Historic District Commission is charged with insuring the Maintenance and Preservation of
Buildings in the Manistee Commercial Historic District. Under exceptional circumstances a request may
be made for the demolition of all or a portion of a building following Guideline #12 - Demolition.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to conduct a preliminary discussion with staff and attend the
meeting to explain the proposed work.
Introductory Meeting with Staff or Museum Director/Curator - Staff will assist the applicant
by explaining the application form and Guidelines. Museum Director/Curator will research any
historical documentation available that could assist the applicant.
Submission of Application – Applicant will submit their request to Staff who will review it to
make sure they have supplied all the necessary information including a site plan. If no
Additional information is needed Staff will process the request and $50 payment (Checks made
payable to ‘City of Manistee’).
Meeting – Applicant shall present their request to the commission. The HDC will begin their
deliberation on the request. If the Commission determines that no additional information is
needed they will deliberate/take action on the request. The will either approve or deny the
request. If the Commission determines that additional information is needed they will
postpone their determination until their next regularly scheduled meeting or schedule a Special
Meeting.
Historic Record Information – If demolition is authorized for all or a portion of a structure by
the City of Manistee Historic District Commission the applicant is required to provide
documentation to the Commission prior to the issuance of a permit to proceed with demolition.
This documentation will become part of the Property Record File.
Permit – Staff will process permit and necessary paperwork.
Status Update – Staff will reach out after 10 months to see project status. If progress is being
made though project not completed; HDC may extend certificate expiration date upon formal
review at a regularly scheduled HDC meeting.
Applicant is required to obtain a building Permit from the Building Inspector.
(5/19)