Rural business
Some properties in rural areas can now receive help with their non-domestic rates. A rural settlement is defined as a settlement with a population of no more than 3,000 which is wholly or partly within a council’s defined rural settlement area.
The scheme is split in to two elements.
The rateable value of the property at the beginning of the rating year must not exceed a specified amount. For post offices, general stores and food shops the rateable value must be no more than £8,500, whilst for public houses and petrol filling stations the rateable value must be no more than £12,500.
Mandatory relief
This allows 100 per cent relief from paying business rates. It can be awarded to a post office, general store, public house, petrol filling station or food shop if they are the only one available in a designated rural settlement area.
Discretionary relief
The council may also award up to 100 per cent discretionary relief, to any small rural business which is situated in a ‘designated rural settlement’, if the rateable value does not exceed £16,500.
The council has to be satisfied that the business is of benefit to the local community and that it is reasonable to award relief given the cost to the council taxpayers of the district.
To check if you are included in the rural areas covered, you can check our rural settlement list within the guidance notes.
To apply for rural rate relief, please complete and return this application form.
Contact us - Business Rates
0845 300 5562
(Text phone users add 18001 before dialing)
South Oxfordshire District Council
PO Box 162
Erith
DA8 9DS
