Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Guide

Planning permission is asking if you can do a certain piece of building work, be this an extension to your house or a new superstore for a major developer. It will be granted, subject to certain conditions or refused. The government has set out its rules on determining planning applications called the national planning policy framework. Local authorities or planning development control have their own local plans. You can find your LPA (local planning authority on the planning portal and then search for the local development plan. This will give you full details on specific areas and any forth coming plans or restrictions.

The Community Infrastructure Levy

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a planning charge, introduced by the Planning Act 2008 as a tool for local authorities in England and Wales to help deliver infrastructure to support the development of their area. It came into force on 6 April 2010 through the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010. Development may be liable for a charge under the CIL if your local planning authority has chosen to set a charge in its area.

CIL Criteria

Most new development which creates net additional floor space of 100 square metres or more, or creates a new dwelling, is potentially liable for the levy.

Some developments may be eligible for relief or exemption from the CIL. Please note that strict requirements apply with regard to the timing of the exemption process and you should refer to the guidance highlighted below for details.  In most cases, a Commencement Notice (form 6) must also be served prior to the commencement of development, in order for the exemption to apply.

Need to Learn More?

Detailed CIL guidance is available from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government on the Gov.uk website.

Do you have a project?

Speak to our friendly team today