Who charges CIL?

We are often asked as to who charges CIL? This has got a bit complicated over recent years as several local authorities issued draft CIL legislation and never brought it forward to implementation. So which local authorities do charge CIL? We do not list those other authorities, just those who actually charge CIL!

The government said in June 2026 that 164 local authorities in England charge and collect CIL. The table below also retains some legacy charging-schedule areas where councils have merged, so its number of rows is not a count of current authority bodies. Always confirm the charging schedule and exact site boundary on the current authority website before relying on a rate. If we have any errors, please let us know.

Local authorities may have different charges based on the planning use class of the development. This would usually differ between residential and commercial or retail. In addition there may well be zones applied. Some zones may be zero if out of town, but higher in town. Again we advise people to check.

Also check our CIL frequently asked questions and the step-by-step CIL process before starting work.

Local government reorganisation makes this table look longer than the current list of charging authorities. In places such as Dorset, Somerset, Buckinghamshire and North Yorkshire, an inherited charging schedule may still apply only in the area of a former district. We therefore retain some legacy area rows as a practical boundary reminder. They are not additional councils. The same issue now applies to the former London Legacy Development Corporation area: since 1st December 2024 the relevant London borough is the charging and collecting authority, although inherited LLDC charging geography can still matter. Check the current authority’s map and charging schedule for the site itself.

Once you know who charges CIL – what about reliefs? 

Reliefs and exemptions are not automatic. The relevant claim must be made and, where the Regulations require it, granted before development starts. A missed step can either prevent the relief being obtained or trigger a surcharge, depending on which requirement was missed. Make sure the correct forms are filed and use our CIL process and reliefs and exemptions guides before commencement. If you want us to check the paperwork, contact Planning Geek.

Also see our pages on reliefs and exemptions and the self-build exemption page.

Not all local planning authorities have introduced CIL. In England the government said in June 2026 that over half now charge it. CIL also exists in parts of Wales, but not in Scotland or Northern Ireland. Rates vary sharply by development type, zone and year because charging schedules are local and are indexed. In Greater London, Mayoral CIL can be payable in addition to borough CIL.

If you are confused by CIL it is one of the subjects that we can cover in our Zoom calls with Ian. You can book a session here. 

Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)

CIL page updated: 22nd August 2026