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

An eligible ratepayer will be entitled to relief at 100% of the full charge.

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

  • the only food shop, general store or post office with a rateable value of less than £8,500
  • the only public house or petrol station with a rateable value of up to £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 mandatory 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.

The Council can also give discretionary relief of up to 100% for a property in a rural area with a rateable value of £16,500 or less, if we are satisfied that:

  • the property is used for purposes which are of benefit to the local community and
  • it would be reasonable for the Council to award relief, having regard to the interest of the Council Tax payers in the district.

For the financial year 2025/2026 the following areas have been designated as rural settlements for the purpose of considering applications for rural rate relief:

  • Chetwynd Parish
  • Chetwynd Aston and Woodcote Parish
  • Church Aston Parish
  • Edgmond Parish
  • Ercall Magna Parish
  • Eyton Upon the Wealds Moors Parish
  • Kynnersley Parish
  • Lilleshall Parish
  • Little Wenlock Parish
  • Preston Upon the Weald Moor Parish
  • Rodington Parish
  • Tibberton and Cherrington Parish
  • Waters Upton Parish.

Please use our online form:

Complete our online form to apply for rural rate relief 

Last updated : 22 January 2025

Please use our online form:

Complete our online form to apply for rural rate relief

Last updated : 12 September 2024