Process for Signage/Awning Requests
Museum Director/Historic District Commission
A Step-By-Step Guide
The Museum Director/Curator has been designated by the Commission to review projects that are
considered to be routine in an effort to expedite requests, reserving the right to forward the request
to the Commission at their discretion. The requests that the Museum Director/Curator have oversight
include:
Awnings - Awning material and dimensions must be approved by the Museum Director or Curator.
Requests for Awnings that do not meet the requirements of Guideline #1 - Awnings will be forwarded
to the Historic District Commission for review. If the Awning includes signage the applicant must follow
the requirements for Signage. A Building Permit must be obtained prior to installation.
Signage - Signage within the Historic District requires an approved Sign Permit. If the application does
not meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals may
be applied for. Only after a Sign Permit has been issued will the request be reviewed by the Museum
Director or Curator. Requests that do not meet the requirements of Guideline #2 - Signage will be
forwarded to the Historic District Commission for review. In that event the Museum Director or Curator
may permit temporary signage to be installed. Projecting Signs require a Building Permit prior to
installation.
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’).
Request Approved – 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.
Once project is completed the project will be reviewed and a Certificate of Compliance will be sent for
the applicants files.
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