Rural rates relief

Which businesses would be entitled?

Under the scheme, the following businesses in designated rural settlements are entitled to 100% mandatory rate relief: 

• The only general store, post office or a food shop with a rateable value of less than £8,500.
• The only public house or the only petrol station with a rateable value of less than £12,500.  
• The property must be occupied. 

It is possible for both a general store and a Post Office in the same rural area to qualify for mandatory rate relief if they both meet the conditions. 

To qualify for this relief, a general store must mainly sell both food and general household goods.

Only part of the property need be used as a general store. For example, the business of a general store and another business could be carried on side-by-side in one premises.

If there are two general stores in the same rural area, neither will qualify for mandatory relief, although, if either functions as a Post Office, relief for this can be claimed separately. 

Apply for the rate relief here: Rural Rate Relief Application

If you do not meet the above conditions, we may still award discretionary relief up to 100% for a property in a rural area if: 

• The property has a rateable value of £16,500 or less.
• The property is used for purposes which are of benefit to the local community; and 
• it would be reasonable for us to award relief, considering the interests of the council taxpayers in the district.  

Please note, whilst your application is being processed, your current rates are due and payable. 

If relief is awarded, an amended rates demand will be issued with new payment instructions. This will take account of any payments you have already made.