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 CIL if your local planning authority has chosen to set a charge in its area.

New developments that create net additional 'gross internal area' of 100 square metres or more, or create new dwellings, are potentially liable for the levy.

Some developments may be eligible for relief or exemption from 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 be served prior to the commencement of development, otherwise:

• the exemption or relief may be revoked;
• the full CIL charge may become payable;
• a surcharge may be applied.

Detailed CIL guidance is available from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government on the Gov.uk website¹.

Information on CIL Appeals² and CIL Examinations³ is also available on GOV.UK

Contact information

If you have any legislation or policy questions about the Community Infrastructure Levy you can contact the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government⁴.

1. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/community-infrastructure-levy
2. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/appeal-a-community-infrastructure-levy-enforcement-notice
3. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/community-infrastructure-levy-plan-examinations
4. https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government