Charitable and Discretionary Relief

Discretionary Rate Relief application form [word document]

Charitable Relief, Relief for Registered Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) and Discretionary Relief

Charities (and some other organisations) are entitled to relief from rates on any non-domestic property that is completely or mainly used for charitable purposes. 

Registered CASCS are also entitled to relief from rates on any non-domestic property that is completely or mainly used for the purposes of that club, or that club and of other such registered clubs.

In both cases, relief is given at 80% of the charge and the Council has discretion to give further relief on the remaining bill.

Mandatory Relief application form [pdf document]

More Information on Discretionary Rate Relief

Discretionary Rate Relief (DRR) can be given by tithe Council subject organisations meeting the criteria in the guidance notes attached to the application form. Generally DRR is granted to all organisations that are in receipt of Mandatory Rate Relief although it should be noted that each organisation can only receive a maximum of £2000 discretionary rate relief. This change was introduced to ensure that the funding available can be used to help the maximum number of organisations.
 
Sports Clubs generally do not have charitable status for Non Domestic Rates purposes, but they can apply for this status through the Inland Revenue. If they meet certain criteria they will then receive Mandatory Rate Relief. Darlington Borough Council do not give top up DRR where sports clubs have this status. Sports Clubs without charitable status can apply for DRR and the % relief varies 10% to 50% depending on whether the club runs a licensed bar.
 
Organisations must apply every year.
 
The Council also has the discretion to give relief on all or part of any rate bill for property occupied by certain non-profit making bodies.

For further information details please contact:

Peter Roberts
Social Enterprise Development Manager
Services for People
Darlington Borough Council
Town Hall (Room 222)
Darlington
DL1 5QT

Telephone: 01325 388713