Rural rate relief

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Certain types of properties in a rural settlement with a population below 3,000 may be entitled to relief.

'The property must be occupied, have a rateable value of less than £8,500 and be:

• the only general store;
• the only post office; or
• a food shop

Or, the property must be occupied, have a rateable value of less than £12,500, and be:

• the only public house
• the only petrol station

An eligible ratepayer is entitled to relief at 50% of the full charge. The council also has discretion to give further relief on the remaining bill.

In addition, the council can give relief on certain other occupied property in a rural settlement where the rateable value is less than £16,500. The council must be satisfied that the property is used for a purpose which benefits the local community.

To apply for this business rate reduction simply contact your local office to request a form or download the  Business rates - rural rate rellief form rural rate relief form 99kb.

Read our Non-domestic rate discretionary relief policy

Last updated: 23 January 2012