Council Tax discounts and exemptions

In most cases, if a property is occupied, it is charged Council Tax. However, certain types of property are free (known as 'exempt') from any charge.

You can apply online for an occupied property exemption.

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While we process your application, you must continue paying your Council Tax. We can take action if you do not pay the full amount.

Eligible properties

Occupied properties which do not have to pay Council Tax include:

• forces barracks and married quarters – contributions to the cost of local services are received through a special arrangement
• visiting forces accommodation
• student occupied households and those which include spouses or dependants of overseas students who are not British citizens and unable to work or claim benefit
• halls of residence
• properties occupied solely by people under 18 years of age
• properties occupied only by one or more severely mentally impaired person
• certain properties occupied by diplomats
• annexes occupied by a dependant relative of the main property – dependant relatives are defined as being 65 or over, or severely mentally impaired or permanently disabled