Property rates are levied based on zoning as stipulated by the town planning department. Zoning, defined as land use rights, drives the category of property, which in turn specifies property rates tariff rating. For example, properties zoned residential are categorised as residential category and are therefore levied a residential property rates tariff. Properties zoned special, business, and undetermined are categorised as business and commercial and are therefore rated at a business property rates tariff, even if they are used for residential purposes.
The City’s rates policy stipulates that a ratable property will attract a rate which is based on the highest permitted use of the property unless otherwise stated. Properties zoned to permit a mix of commercial and residential usage should be rated according to the highest tariff applicable to the permitted use. Mixed Property zoned to permit a mix of commercial and residential usage is therefore rated in the business category, even if the property is used for residential purpose.
In terms of the Rates Policy, residential property owners, who are being billed at a business property rate tariff, can apply at the Customer Service Centre on a form prescribed by the Council to be charged at residential rates. Where the actual usage is primarily residential, the residential rates and property value reductions and rebates will apply to such property. The residential tariff will be applied from the date of application.
