How to Renovate or Improve a Commercial Building in Tiffin & Seneca County, Ohio

Tiffin & Seneca County, Ohio
Updated 2025 – A Guide for Business and Property Owners

If you're planning a renovation or improvement project for a commercial property in Tiffin or Seneca County, Ohio, this guide outlines the general steps and contacts you need to know. Requirements vary by location and project type, so reach out early — we're here to help you through the process from start to finish.

1. Downtown Tiffin Projects

Architectural Board of Review (ABR)

If your property is located within the Downtown Design Review District, you may need approval from the Architectural Board of Review (ABR) before making any visible exterior changes. This includes properties recognized by the Ohio Historic Preservation Office.

About the ABR
The ABR is a seven-member board appointed by the Mayor to protect the historical and architectural character of Downtown Tiffin. Projects are evaluated based on the Downtown Design Review Guidelines.

Projects that may require ABR review include:

• Façade repairs or improvements (masonry, siding, brick cleaning, tuck pointing)
• Painting (new colors require approval)
• Windows and doors (replacement or restoration)
• Exterior signage, awnings, or lighting
• Roofing, gutters, and downspouts
• Exterior staircases or fire escapes
• Any visible exterior alterations or demolitions

• Participation in grant-funded programs

Steps to Begin:

• Contact Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager
• Confirm if your property is in the Design Review District (district map available online)
• Request a preliminary review if you're unsure whether ABR review is required
• Submit a Certificate of Appropriateness

• Present your project at an ABR meeting

Façade Enhancement Grant

This matching grant reimburses 50% of eligible exterior improvement costs, up to $10,000 per calendar year, per building.

Eligible improvements include:

• Painting, masonry work, and signage
• Awnings, windows, and doors

• Roofing, gutters, and exterior stairs

Application requirements:

• Certificate of Appropriateness (ABR application)
• Façade Enhancement Grant application
• Project description and current photos
• Color renderings or architectural drawings
• Itemized quotes from licensed contractors

• Completed W-9 tax form

Resources available at: www.tiffinohio.gov/ABR
Includes design guidelines, district map, and application materials.

Contact:
Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager
Phone: 419-447-3831
Email: gross@tiffinseneca.org
Website: www.downtowntiffin.org

2. Building Permits

Seneca County Building Department (SAFEbuilt)

Seneca County partners with SAFEbuilt to manage commercial and industrial building permits. This includes permits for structural, mechanical, electrical, and occupancy changes.

Permit Forms and Information:
Website: senecacountyohio.gov/building-department-forms

Contacts:
Ashley White, Permit Technician – awhite@safebuilt.com
Bill DiFucci, Chief Building Official – wdifucci@safebuilt.com
Phone: 419-447-8022
Address: 92 E. Perry Street, Suite 1103, Tiffin, OH 44883

3. Plumbing Permits

Erie County Plumbing Program

All commercial plumbing permits in Seneca County must be issued through Erie County.

Permit Information:
eriecohealthohio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/commercial_permit_app-4.27.pdf

Contacts:
Wyatt Simon, Plumbing Inspector – 419-626-5623 ext. 206
General Office Phone: 419-626-5623
Email: plumbing@eriecountyhealthohio.org
Address: 420 Superior Street, Sandusky, OH 44870
Website: eriecohealthohio.com/plumbing-program

 

4. Zoning and Signage

City of Tiffin Engineering Department

Zoning and signage permits must be approved before submitting building plans.

Permits May Address:

• Land use and site plan review
• Building setbacks and lot coverage
• Sign design and placement

• Driveway and right-of-way access

Contractor Licensing Requirement:
As of January 1, 2024, all general contractors working on commercial or residential projects within the City of Tiffin must hold a general contractor license. Be sure to confirm that your contractor is properly licensed.

Form and Resources: tiffinohio.gov/departments/engineering/zoning-planning

Contact:
Dan Brickner, Zoning Inspector
Phone: 419-448-5425
Email: dbrickner@tiffinohio.gov

5. Fire Code Compliance

Tiffin Fire/Rescue Division

Fire code compliance is an essential part of the renovation process. The Fire/Rescue Division offers support and inspections throughout your project.

Services Include:

• Code consultations and plan reviews
• Fire safety and life safety inspections
• Sprinkler and alarm system checks

• Final occupancy inspections

Contact:
Amanda Hannam, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: 419-448-5444
Email: ahannam@tiffinohio.gov

6. Food Service Permits

Seneca County General Health District (SCGHD)

Any business preparing or selling food must obtain a Food Service Operation (FS) or Retail Food Establishment (RFE) license.

Plan Review is Required For:

• New food businesses
• Major renovations or equipment updates
• Ownership transfers
• Reopening after 12+ months of closure

Contact:
Nicki Rumschlag, Environmental Health
Phone: 419-447-3691 ext. 348
Address: 92 E. Perry Street, Tiffin, OH 44883
Plan Review Application: Download the 2025 Application (PDF)

7. Plan Preparation & Final Inspections

• SAFEbuilt will advise if your plans require approval from a licensed Ohio architect or engineer

• You must pass all applicable inspections: building, fire, plumbing, and health
• Final approvals may include:
  • Certificate of Use and Occupancy (SAFEbuilt)
  • Life Safety Certificate (Tiffin Fire/Rescue Division, if applicable)

Start Here for Help

Need help navigating the process? Start with our office — we’ll connect you with the right people and support you every step of the way.

Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership
Phone: 419-447-3831
Website: www.tiffinseneca.org