Charges Register
2026–2027
IMAGE: The Orkney Islands Council crest appears above the title “Charges Register 2026–2027”.
Contents
- Chief Executive
- Licence Application Fees
- Miscellaneous Licence Information
- Cinema Licences
- Premises Licence (Alcohol)
- Variations of Premises Licences (which do not include transfer)
- Personal Licences (Alcohol)
- Gambling Applications
- Other Applications
- General Registration Fees
- Marriage / Civil Partnership
- Infrastructure and Organisational Development
- Property Services
- Burial Charges
- Car Parking - Pay and Display Charges
- Council Land and Car Parks Charges
- Road Services Permits
- Trade Waste and Recyclates Collection Service
- Trade Waste and Recyclates Collection Service - Seasonal Services
- Trade Waste and Recyclates Collection Service - Annual Service - Charity Charges
- Trade Waste and Recyclates Collection Service - Seasonal Service - Charity Charges
- Ad Hoc Empty of Recyclates
- Domestic Special Collections
- Event Costs
- Bossack Landfill and Transfer Station
- Chinglebraes Waste Transfer Station
- Quarries
- Building Standards
- Development Management
- Naming and / or Numbering
- Works Licences
- Fees where Planning Applications require a Notice in the Press
- Environmental Health
- Environmental Health Charges - Statutory or UK Standard fees
- Trading Standards
- Enterprise and Resources
- Islands Airfields
- Transport - General
- St Magnus Cathedral
- Museums and Visitor Centres
- Education, Communities and Housing
- Blue Badge Scheme
- Warehouse Buildings (Stromness)
- School Meals / Lunch Club
- Libraries and Archive
- Libraries
- Archive
- Kirkwall Library - Room and Equipment Hire
- Photographic Prices
- Digital Images
- Latitude Mapping Services and Internet Use
- Active Life Card - KGS, Dounby, Stromness Pool and Healthy Living Centres
- Stromness Swimming Pool
- Stromness Pool and Fitness Centre
- Stromness Academy
- Outdoor Sports Facilities
- Playing Fields
- Indoor Sports Facilities (includes changing facilities)
- Classrooms and Dining Hall
- Events Areas
- Lecture Theatre
- Kirkwall Grammar School (KGS)
- Classroom Hire
- Sports Centre
- Playing Fields
- Synthetic Pitch
- Events
- Dounby Centre
- Indoor Sports Facilities
- Room Hire
- Playing Fields - Football, Rugby and Hockey
- Stromness Community Centre
- Stromness Town Hall
- Kirkwall and St Ola Community Centre
- Lettings Charges
- Function Suite
- Surcharges
- School Lets
- School Lets - Surcharges per hour after 22:30
- Point of Ness and Birsay Caravan and Camping Site
- Outdoor Centres - Hoy
- Outdoor Centres - Rackwick Hostel
- Outdoor Centres - Birsay
- Papdale Halls of Residence
- Healthy Living Centres
- Stronsay / St Maragaret’s Hope / Sanday / Shapinsay / North Walls / Westray / Rousay
- Housing
- Garage Rents
- Housing - Rent
- Homelessness Rents - Emergency Accommodation
- Shed / Plot Rents
- Allotments
- Community Learning and Development
- Evening Classes
- Youth Club
- Islands Community School Levy
- Orkney Health and Care
- Care Charges
- Home Care and Meal Charges
- Selbro Resource Centre – Hatston Industrial Estate, Kirkwall
- Guidance Notes relating to Lets
- Guidance Notes on VAT Levy on letting of facilities
1. Chief Executive
Licence Application Fees
Please note:
Licence fees are non-refundable.
Advertisement costs and third party costs with related administration are met directly by licence holders.
Other than licences for cinemas, the fee payable in respect of the substitution or variation to any type of licence together with the following matters, are the same as the fee for the appropriate licence type for one year:
- Temporary licences (which cannot exceed six weeks)
- Certified duplicate or true copy licences.
- Consideration of any material change of circumstances, including premises, vehicles or vessels.
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licences for Short Term Lets - Application Fees. | See Licences for Short Term Lets: Click Here. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Taxis or private hire car licences: Fee includes plates. | 1 year. | £343.00 | £0.00 | £343.00 | N/A. |
| Taxis or private hire car licences: Fee includes plates. | 3 years. | £903.00 | £0.00 | £903.00 | N/A. |
| Replacement plates: External. | Any duration. | £51.50 | £0.00 | £51.50 | N/A. |
| Replacement plates: Internal. | Any duration. | £25.80 | £0.00 | £25.80 | N/A. |
| Taxi and private hire car booking offices. | 1 year. | £206.00 | £0.00 | £206.00 | N/A. |
| Taxi and private hire car booking offices. | 3 years. | £555.00 | £0.00 | £555.00 | N/A. |
| Taxi or private hire car drivers: Fee includes ID badge. | 1 year. | £96.00 | £0.00 | £96.00 | N/A. |
| Taxi or private hire car drivers: Fee includes ID badge. | 3 years. | £243.00 | £0.00 | £243.00 | N/A. |
| Indoor sports entertainment. | 1 year. | £190.00 | £0.00 | £190.00 | N/A. |
| Indoor sports entertainment. | 3 years. | £505.00 | £0.00 | £505.00 | N/A. |
| Knife dealer. | 1 year. | £162.00 | £0.00 | £162.00 | Plus advertising costs. |
| Knife dealer. | 3 years. | £427.00 | £0.00 | £427.00 | Plus advertising costs. |
| Late hours catering. | 1 year. | £242.00 | £0.00 | £242.00 | N/A. |
| Late hours catering. | 3 years. | £640.00 | £0.00 | £640.00 | N/A. |
| Market operators. | 1 year. | £366.00 | £0.00 | £366.00 | N/A. |
| Market operators. | 3 years. | £632.00 | £0.00 | £632.00 | N/A. |
| Metal dealers. | 1 year. | £190.00 | £0.00 | £190.00 | N/A. |
| Metal dealers. | 3 years. | £505.00 | £0.00 | £505.00 | N/A. |
| Public entertainment. | 1 year. | £205.00 | £0.00 | £205.00 | N/A. |
| Public entertainment. | 3 years. | £532.00 | £0.00 | £532.00 | N/A. |
| Raised structure (temporary). | One event. | £121.00 | £0.00 | £121.00 | N/A. |
| Second hand dealers. | 1 year. | £190.00 | £0.00 | £190.00 | N/A. |
| Second hand dealers. | 3 years. | £505.00 | £0.00 | £505.00 | N/A. |
| Sex shops. | 1 year. | £2,819.00 | £0.00 | £2,819.00 | N/A. |
| Skin piercing and tattooing. | 1 year. | £317.00 | £0.00 | £317.00 | N/A. |
| Skin piercing and tattooing. | 3 years. | £834.00 | £0.00 | £834.00 | N/A. |
| Street traders: Operators and / or employees - fee includes badge. | 1 year (per person). | £191.00 | £0.00 | £191.00 | N/A. |
| Street traders: Operators and / or employees - fee includes badge. | 3 years (per person). | £505.00 | £0.00 | £505.00 | N/A. |
| Window cleaners: Operators and / or employees – fee includes badge. | 1 year (per person). | £96.00 | £0.00 | £96.00 | N/A. |
| Window cleaners: Operators and / or employees – fee includes badge. | 3 years (per person). | £251.00 | £0.00 | £251.00 | N/A. |
Miscellaneous Licence Information
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement / Copy licence. | Per licence. | £42.70 | £0.00 | £42.70 | N/A. |
| ID badge including replacement. | To end of licence. | £42.70 | £0.00 | £42.70 | N/A. |
Cinema Licences
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cinema licence: Seating capacity up to 100 persons. | 1 year. | £205.00 | £0.00 | £205.00 | N/A. |
| Cinema licence: Seating capacity over 100 persons. | 1 year. | £403.00 | £0.00 | £403.00 | N/A. |
Premises Licence (Alcohol)
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premises which have no rateable value, clubs and certain other premises. | Initial fee. | £200.00 | £0.00 | £200.00 | N/A. |
| Premises which have no rateable value, clubs and certain other premises. | Annual fee. | £180.00 | £0.00 | £180.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £1 and £11,500. | Initial fee. | £800.00 | £0.00 | £800.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £1 and £11,500. | Annual fee. | £220.00 | £0.00 | £220.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £11,501 and £35,000. | Initial fee. | £1,100.00 | £0.00 | £1,100.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £11,501 and £35,000. | Annual fee. | £280.00 | £0.00 | £280.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £35,001 and £70,000. | Initial fee. | £1,300.00 | £0.00 | £1,300.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £35,001 and £70,000. | Annual fee. | £500.00 | £0.00 | £500.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £70,001 and £140,000. | Initial fee. | £1,700.00 | £0.00 | £1,700.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises between £70,001 and £140,000. | Annual fee. | £700.00 | £0.00 | £700.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises over £140,000. | Initial fee. | £2,000.00 | £0.00 | £2,000.00 | N/A. |
| Rateable value of premises over £140,000. | Annual fee. | £900.00 | £0.00 | £900.00 | N/A. |
Variations of Premises Licences (which do not include transfer)
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer on application of licence holder, which includes an application for variation of the premises licence. | Per application. | £200.00 | £0.00 | £200.00 | N/A. |
| Transfer on application of licence holder, which does not include an application for variation of the premises licence. | Per application. | £150.00 | £0.00 | £150.00 | N/A. |
| Transfer on application of person other than licence holder, which includes an application for variation of the premises licence. | Per application. | £200.00 | £0.00 | £200.00 | N/A. |
| Transfer on application of person other than licence holder, which does not include an application for variation of the premises licence. | Per application. | £150.00 | £0.00 | £150.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of any of the conditions to which the licence is subject. | Per application. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of any of the information contained in the operating plan. | Per application. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of the layout plan which results in inconsistency with the operating plan. | Per application. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of the layout plan which does not result in inconsistency with the operation plan. | Per application. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of the information contained or referred to in the licence. | Per application. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Where children and young persons are allowed entry to the premises, any variation reflecting any restriction or proposed restriction of the terms on which they are allowed entry to the premises. | Per application. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Variation of the information contained in the licence relating to the premises manager (including variation to substitute a premises manager). | Per application. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Application under section 31 (1) of the Act i.e. The applicant requests that the variation to substitute another individual as the premises manager should have immediate effect and any other variation sought is a minor variation. | Per application. | £31.00 | £0.00 | £31.00 | N/A. |
| Temporary premises licence. | Per application. | £800.00 | £0.00 | £800.00 | N/A. |
| Occasional licence. | Per application. | £10.00 | £0.00 | £10.00 | N/A. |
| Extended hours. | Per application. | £10.00 | £0.00 | £10.00 | N/A. |
Personal Licences (Alcohol)
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal licence. | Per application. | £50.00 | £0.00 | £50.00 | N/A. |
| Replacement personal licence. | Per application. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
Gambling Applications
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small society lottery registrations. | Initial fee. | £40.00 | £0.00 | £40.00 | N/A. |
| Small society lottery registrations. | Annual fee. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Automatic gaming machine entitlement notifications for alcohol licensed premises. | Per application. | £50.00 | £0.00 | £50.00 | N/A. |
| Club machine permits. | Initial fee. | £200.00 | £0.00 | £200.00 | N/A. |
| Club machine permits. | Renewal. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Club machine permits. | Annual fee. | £50.00 | £0.00 | £50.00 | N/A. |
Other Applications
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property enquiry certificate. | Per application. | £199.17 | £39.83 | £239.00 | N/A. |
General Registration Fees
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Particular search in statutory register. | Per search. | £5.00 | £0.00 | £5.00 | N/A. |
| General search in statutory register. | Per hour. | £15.00 | £0.00 | £15.00 | N/A. |
| Certificates. | Per certificate. | £10.00 | £0.00 | £10.00 | N/A. |
| Special certificates. | Per certificate. | £10.00 | £0.00 | £10.00 | N/A. |
Marriage / Civil Partnership
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Town Hall. | Monday to Friday 10:00 to 16:00. | £155.00 | £0.00 | £155.00 | N/A. |
| Town Hall. | Saturday 10:00 to 16:00. | £341.00 | £0.00 | £341.00 | N/A. |
| For a civil marriage at any other venue. | Monday to Saturday. | £341.00 | £0.00 | £341.00 | N/A. |
| Registrar attendance. | First two hours. | £194.00 | £0.00 | £194.00 | N/A. |
| Registrar attendance. | After two hours (per hour). | £41.20 | £0.00 | £41.20 | N/A. |
| Religious marriage. | Event. | £100.00 | £0.00 | £100.00 | N/A. |
| Notice of marriage: Each contracting party. | Per notice. | £45.00 | £0.00 | £45.00 | N/A. |
| Solemnisation of a civil marriage. | Event. | £55.00 | £0.00 | £55.00 | N/A. |
2. Infrastructure and Organisational Development
Property Services
A range of fees and charges applies in respect of property related enquiries managed by the Estates Team. You are advised to review the undernoted list to determine if a charge is applicable to your enquiry or seek advice from the Estates Team if required.
Third party specialist advice required by the Council to deal with your enquiry will be recharged at its actual cost. For example, a request to purchase land or property not currently for sale may require the Council to commission a valuation surveyor to provide a valuation report which enables the Council to fully consider your request. The cost of obtaining the property valuation is payable by the applicant in advance of work being carried out.
The commercial value (for example the sale price, rent or servitude value) of an agreed request is payable in addition to the fees noted below.
A discount of 50% is available for eligible charities and community groups requesting temporary use of land or property for fundraising purposes or for a community event.
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Landlord consent for alterations where rent is under £10,000 per annum (excl. VAT). | Per consent. | £322.50 | £64.50 | £387.00 | N/A. |
| Landlord consent for alterations where rent is £10,000 or more per annum (excl. VAT). | Per consent. | £641.67 | £128.33 | £770.00 | N/A. |
| Landlord consent to vary leases including assignation, early termination, sub-leasing or any other change to terms and conditions. | Per consent. | £401.67 | £80.33 | £482.00 | N/A. |
| Request to temporarily use Council land or property. | Per request. | £242.50 | £48.50 | £291.00 | N/A. |
| Request to purchase land or property which is not currently for sale. | Per request. | £641.67 | £128.33 | £770.00 | N/A. |
| Request for a servitude or a wayleave. | Per request. | £322.50 | £64.50 | £387.00 | N/A. |
| Additional work. | Per hour. | £80.83 | £16.17 | £97.00 | N/A. |
| Specialist advice. | At cost. | At cost. | £0.00 | At cost. | N/A. |
Burial Charges
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burial ground charges: Excavation of grave. | Per excavation. | £853.00 | £0.00 | £853.00 | A 25% supplementary charge will be applied for services requested outside normal working hours or at weekends. |
| Burial ground charges: Excavation of grave for casket. | Per excavation. | £248.00 | £0.00 | £248.00 | A 25% supplementary charge will be applied for services requested outside normal working hours or at weekends. |
| Burial ground charges: Sale of lairs where double depth interment is possible. | Per lair. | £1,100.00 | £0.00 | £1,100.00 | N/A. |
| Burial ground charges: Sale of lairs where only single depth interment is possible. | Per lair. | £750.00 | £0.00 | £750.00 | N/A. |
| Excavation of a grave for an infant / juvenile. | Occasion. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | No charge. |
| Permit to erect a memorial on a lair in OIC managed burial ground. | Per permit | £67.50 | £0.00 | £67.50 | N/A. |
Car Parking - Pay and Display Charges
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Albert Street / Castle Street / St Magnus Lane / Gunn’s Close. Stromness: Ferry Inn. | Up to 1 hour. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Winter rates: January to March. |
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Albert Street / Castle Street / St Magnus Lane / Gunn’s Close. Stromness: Ferry Inn. | Up to 1 hour. | £1.00 | £0.20 | £1.20 | Summer rates: April to December. |
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Albert Street / Castle Street / St Magnus Lane / Gunn’s Close. Stromness: Ferry Inn. | 2 hours. | £2.25 | £0.45 | £2.70 | All year round, excluding public holidays. |
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Albert Street / Castle Street / St Magnus Lane / Gunn’s Close. Stromness: Ferry Inn. | 3 hours. | £4.75 | £0.95 | £5.70 | All year round, excluding public holidays. |
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Burgh Road / Great Western Road North. Stromness: Ferry Terminal. | 4 hours. | £2.00 | £0.40 | £2.40 | All year round, excluding public holidays. |
| Pay and display car park charges. Kirkwall: Burgh Road / Great Western Road North. Stromness: Ferry Terminal. | 8 hours. | £2.75 | £0.55 | £3.30 | All year round, excluding public holidays. |
| Parking fine. | Per offence. | £50.00 | £10.00 | £60.00 | 50% early repayment reduction if paid within 14 days. Additional payment of £15 if fine is not paid within 42 days of issue. |
Council Land and Car Parks Charges
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charge for overnight parking of campervans, tents and caravans. | Per night. | £15.50 | £3.10 | £18.60 | N/A. |
| Rapid electric vehicles charging points. | Per kWh charge. | £0.49 | £0.10 | £0.59 | Minimum charge £3.00. Maximum stay - 1 hour. Penalty for overstay - £1 per minute. |
| Fast/Slow electric vehicles charging points. | Per kWh charge. | £0.41 | £0.08 | £0.49 | Minimum charge £1.50. Maximum stay 4 hours. Penalty for overstay between 08:00 and 18:00 - £5.00. Penalty for overstay between 18:00 and 08:00 - £nil. |
| Electric vehicles charging points. | Penalty charge for over an hour use of a rapid charger and over 3 hours use of a fast/medium charge. | £5.17 | £1.03 | £6.20 | N/A. |
Road Services Permits
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Permission for minor road works consent to open the road for the purpose of installing or maintaining apparatus within the public road. | Per permission. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Sample inspection fees. | Per inspection. | £36.00 | £0.00 | £36.00 | N/A. |
| Defect inspection fees. | Per inspection. | £72.00 | £0.00 | £72.00 | N/A. |
| Investigatory inspection fees. | Per inspection. | £36.00 | £0.00 | £36.00 | N/A. |
| Liability for cost of temporary traffic regulations. | 1 to 7 days. | £671.00 | £0.00 | £671.00 | Plus advertising costs. |
| Liability for cost of temporary traffic regulations. | 8 days to maximum 18 months. | £940.00 | £0.00 | £940.00 | Plus advertising costs. |
| Permission for minor road works consent to construct a new access, vehicular crossing or make an opening within the public road. | Per permission. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (and to erect staging or scaffolding). | Per week. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (and to erect staging or scaffolding). | Each subsequent week. | £117.00 | £0.00 | £117.00 | N/A. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (storage of building materials). | Per week. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (storage of building materials). | Each subsequent week. | £117.00 | £0.00 | £117.00 | N/A. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (container, cabin etc). | Per week. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (container, cabin etc). | Each subsequent week. | £117.00 | £0.00 | £117.00 | N/A. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (Cherry picker (MEWP)). | Per week. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to temporarily occupy a portion of the public road in connection with building operations (Cherry picker (MEWP)). | Each subsequent week. | £117.00 | £0.00 | £117.00 | N/A. |
| Control of obstructions in the road (Pavement cafes). | Per annum. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Control of obstructions in the road (Temporary signs etc). | Per annum. | £233.00 | £0.00 | £233.00 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to place a builder's skip within the public road. | Per week. | £66.50 | £0.00 | £66.50 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Permission to place a builder's skip within the public road. | Each subsequent week. | £66.50 | £0.00 | £66.50 | N/A. |
| Permission to place portable traffic signals for the control of traffic on the public road. | Per occasion. | £66.50 | £0.00 | £66.50 | Retrospective permit applications will be charged a 25% surcharge. |
| Suspension of parking bays in the Council's car parks to permit building works. | Per occasion – per bay. | £66.50 | £0.00 | £66.50 | N/A. |
| Permission to trade from Council car park (excluding pay and display). | Per occasion. | £118.00 | £0.00 | £118.00 | N/A. |
| Permission to trade from Council car park (excluding pay and display). | Monthly charge for weekly use. | £118.00 | £0.00 | £118.00 | N/A. |
| Permission to trade from Council car park (excluding pay and display). | Monthly charge for daily use. | £38.80 | £0.00 | £38.80 | N/A. |
| Consent to construct a road. | Construction costs less than £100,000. | Minimum fee £2,000. | Fee to be agreed and paid in advance of works commencing. | ||
| Consent to construct a road. | Construction costs from £100,001 to £250,000. | 2.5% or minimum fee £2,500. | Fee to be agreed and paid in advance of works commencing. | ||
| Consent to construct a road. | Construction costs from £250,001 to £500,000. | 2.0% or minimum fee £6,250. | Fee to be agreed and paid in advance of works commencing. | ||
| Consent to construct a road. | Construction costs over £500,000. | 1.5% or minimum £10,000. | Fee to be agreed and paid in advance of works commencing. | ||
| Request for adopted road confirmation, including supply of location plan and extract from list of public roads. | Per occasion. | £270.00 | £0.00 | £270.00 | N/A. |
| Installation of traffic counters and supply of data. | Per occasion – per counter. | £270.00 | £0.00 | £270.00 | N/A. |
| Tourist sign post. | Per application for each tourist establishment. | £160.00 | £0.00 | £160.00 | N/A. |
Trade Waste and Recyclates Collection Service
Variation to contract within the financial year: £77.00 per variation.
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trade waste charges - 1100 litre bin emptied twice per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £3,957.20 | £0.00 | £3,957.20 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 1100 litre bin emptied once per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £2,012.40 | £0.00 | £2,012.40 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 1100 litre bin emptied once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £1,040.00 | £0.00 | £1,040.00 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 240 litre bin emptied twice per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £1,227.20 | £0.00 | £1,227.20 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 240 litre bin emptied once per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £618.80 | £0.00 | £618.80 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 240 litre bin emptied once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £312.00 | £0.00 | £312.00 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 140 litre bin emptied twice per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £925.60 | £0.00 | £925.60 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 140 litre bin emptied once per week (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £465.40 | £0.00 | £465.40 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - 140 litre bin emptied once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £236.60 | £0.00 | £236.60 | See note above. |
| Trade waste charges - Beige refuse sacks. | Per sack. | £2.30 | £0.00 | £2.30 | N/A. |
| Source Segregated Recyclates - 240 litre bin, fortnightly collection with each stream collect every four weeks (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £165.10 | £0.00 | £165.10 | See note above. |
| Source Segregated Recyclates - 140 litre bin, fortnightly collection with each stream collect every four weeks (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £150.80 | £0.00 | £150.80 | See note above. |
| Cardboard Collection - 1100 litre bin emptied once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £475.80 | £0.00 | £475.80 | See note above. |
| Approximately 1000 litre bundle of loose cardboard collected once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £409.50 | £0.00 | £409.50 | See note above. |
| Cardboard Collection - 240 litre bin collected once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £165.10 | £0.00 | £165.10 | See note above. |
| Cooking Oil - collected once per fortnight (12 month contract). | Per annum. | £478.40 | £0.00 | £478.40 | See note above. |
Quarries
Prices are available on request by contacting - telephone: 07856 761295
3. Enterprise and Resources
Islands Airfields
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Landing fees annual ticket. | One landing per airfield per day valid at all airfields for one year. | £225.00 | £45.00 | £270.00 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial single engine aircraft. | Per landing. | £19.33 | £3.87 | £23.20 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial single engine aircraft – Day ticket valid for all islands. | Per day. | £32.25 | £6.45 | £38.70 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial twin engine aircraft. | Per landing. | £38.50 | £7.70 | £46.20 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial twin engine aircraft – Day ticket valid for all islands. | Per day. | £49.17 | £9.83 | £59.00 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial helicopter. | Per landing. | £19.33 | £3.87 | £23.20 | N/A. |
| Non-commercial helicopter - Day ticket valid for all islands. | Per day. | £32.25 | £6.45 | £38.70 | N/A. |
| Commercial single engine aircraft. | Per landing. | £80.83 | £16.17 | £97.00 | N/A. |
| Commercial twin engine aircraft (Islander). | Per landing. | £85.00 | £17.00 | £102.00 | N/A. |
| Commercial helicopter under 9,000 kilogrammes. | Per landing. | £150.00 | £30.00 | £180.00 | N/A. |
| Commercial helicopter over 9,000 kilogrammes. | Per landing. | £300.00 | £60.00 | £360.00 | N/A. |
| Indemnity permit. | Per permit. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | No charge. |
| Landing without PPR or a valid indemnity permit. | Per landing or approach. | £80.83 | £16.17 | £97.00 | N/A. |
Transport - General
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charge for use of Travel Centre facilities by coaches. | Per monthly permit. | £125.83 | £25.17 | £151.00 | N/A. |
St Magnus Cathedral
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upstairs tower tours. | Per person. | £15.60 | £0.00 | £15.60 | N/A. |
| Guided tours by Custodial staff for educational institutions. | Per tour. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Graveyard tour. | Per person. | £10.40 | £0.00 | £10.40 | N/A. |
| Ground level tour. | Per person. | £10.40 | £0.00 | £10.40 | N/A. |
| Special theme curator tour. | Per person. | £15.60 | £0.00 | £15.60 | N/A. |
| Private guided tour by cathedral staff. | Per person. | £15.60 | £0.00 | £15.60 | N/A. |
| Hire of Cathedral: commercial. | Per hour out with normal working hours. | £95.83 | £19.17 | £115.00 | N/A. |
| Hire of Cathedral: commercial – if additional staff required. | Per hour per member of staff. | £26.25 | £5.25 | £31.50 | N/A. |
| Hire of Cathedral: charitable bodies. | Per hour out with normal working hours. | £45.00 | £9.00 | £54.00 | N/A. |
| Hire of Cathedral: charitable - if additional staff required. | Per hour per member of staff. | £26.25 | £5.25 | £31.50 | N/A. |
| Filming by TV Companies. | During normal working hours. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Filming by TV Companies. | Outwith normal working hours, per hour. | £90.00 | £18.00 | £108.00 | N/A. |
| Filming by TV Companies. | Out with normal working hours - if extra staff member needed, charge is per staff, per hour. | £26.25 | £5.25 | £31.50 | N/A. |
| Use of Organ by visiting organists. | Per visit. | £45.00 | £9.00 | £54.00 | N/A. |
| All Kirk Session use. | Per session. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Most use within Custodians normal working hours. | Per session. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Self-guided tours undertaken by tour operators. | Per tour. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
| Use of Organ by bone fide students. | Per visit. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | N/A. |
Museums and Visitor Centres
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orkney Museum. | Per person. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Free admittance. |
| Scapa Flow Museum. | Per person. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Free admittance. |
| Kirbuster Farm Museum. | Per person. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Free admittance. |
| Corrigall Farm Museum. | Per person. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Free admittance. |
| Rousay Heritage Centre. | Per person. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Free admittance. |
| Curator tours (Orkney Museum, Kirbuster, Scapa Flow Museum, Cathedral), minimum 6 people. | Per person for 1 hour. | £22.90 | £0.00 | £22.90 | N/A. |
| Drop-in Gallery talks and object handling - curator led (Orkney Museum, Kirbuster, Scapa Flow Museum, Cathedral). | Half hour. | £11.50 | £0.00 | £11.50 | N/A. |
| Premium bespoke tours for specialised groups (literary, graffiti, post-colonial etc) (minimum 10 people). | Per person. | £28.60 | £0.00 | £28.60 | N/A. |
| Private hire (evening reception etc) - out of hours only at Orkney Museum / Scapa Flow Museum / Kirbuster and Cathedral. | Per hour. | £95.83 | £19.17 | £115.00 | 50% discount for charities, additional 25% for individuals and doubled for corporate hire as specified in charging policy. |
| Weddings (only at Orkney Museum, Scapa Flow Museum, Kirbuster). | 2 hours of closure. | £476.67 | £95.33 | £572.00 | N/A. |
| Weddings (only at Orkney Museum, Scapa Flow Museum, Kirbuster). | Per additional hour. | £95.83 | £19.17 | £115.00 | N/A. |
| Weddings (only at Orkney Museum, Scapa Flow Museum, Kirbuster) Photographs. | 1 hour. | £95.83 | £19.17 | £115.00 | N/A. |
| Workshops - conservation, art etc. | Per person. | £28.60 | £0.00 | £28.60 | N/A. |
| Antiques Roadshow - Orkney Museum, Kirkbuster, Scapa Flow Museum. | Per person for entry. | £4.92 | £0.98 | £5.90 | N/A. |
| Public lectures (Orkney Museum, Kirbuster) (minimum 10 people). | Per person. | £11.50 | £0.00 | £11.50 | N/A. |
| Folk Tales and Storytelling sessions (Orkney Museum, Kirbuster) (minimum 10 people). | Per person. | £28.60 | £0.00 | £28.60 | N/A. |
| 3 hour specialist walking tour of wartime Lyness (minimum 10 people). | Per person. | £34.30 | £0.00 | £34.30 | Neolithic tours, viking in Orkney, German fleet etc. |
| Extra staffing for private events. | Per person. | £21.33 | £4.27 | £25.60 | N/A. |
| Digitisation on Demand. | First two images. | £42.92 | £8.58 | £51.50 | N/A. |
4. Education, Communities and Housing
Blue Badge Scheme
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue badge scheme. | Per application. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Blue badge scheme. | Renewal badge. | £20.00 | £0.00 | £20.00 | N/A. |
| Blue badge scheme. | Replacement badge. | £17.70 | £0.00 | £17.70 | N/A. |
Warehouse Buildings (Stromness)
All Rooms - Availability: The rooms are available during building opening hours only (unless a member of OIC staff is present) which are Monday 0915 to 1900, Tuesday to Friday 0915 to 1700 and Saturday 1045 to 1600. No bookings - Sundays or Public Holidays.
Access: All meeting rooms are situated on the ground floor and have full disabled access.
Facilities: Kitchen facilities are available - a kettle and mugs will also be available, but users will have to provide their own tea / coffee etc.
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meeting room (John Rae room). | Per session - up to 3 hours. | £42.92 | £8.58 | £51.50 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 40 persons. Maximum presentation for 55 persons. Maximum standing room only for 55 persons. Dimensions: 9.5 metres by 6 metres. |
| Meeting room (John Rae room). | Per day. | £78.33 | £15.67 | £94.00 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 40 persons. Maximum presentation for 55 persons. Maximum standing room only for 55 persons. Dimensions: 9.5 metres by 6 metres. |
| Meeting room (Marjory Corrigall room). | Per session - up to 3 hours. | £25.67 | £5.13 | £30.80 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 20 persons. Maximum presentation for 20 persons. Maximum standing room only for 30 persons. Access to the kitchen with its own sink and washing up facilities. Dimensions 7 metres by 4 metres. |
| Meeting room (Marjory Corrigall room). | Per day. | £42.92 | £8.58 | £51.50 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 20 persons. Maximum presentation for 20 persons. Maximum standing room only for 30 persons. Access to the kitchen with its own sink and washing up facilities. Dimensions 7 metres by 4 metres. |
| Meeting room (Archie Bevan room). | Per session - up to 3 hours. | £21.50 | £4.30 | £25.80 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 10 persons. Maximum presentation for 20 persons. Maximum standing room only for 20 persons. Dimensions 5.5 metres by 4 metres. |
| Meeting room (Archie Bevan room). | Per day. | £33.92 | £6.78 | £40.70 | Maximum boardroom or hollow square for 10 persons. Maximum presentation for 20 persons. Maximum standing room only for 20 persons. Dimensions 5.5 metres by 4 metres. |
| Equipment charge: Tv display screen (John Rae room Only), Projector / laptop and screen. | Per day. | £10.42 | £2.08 | £12.50 | N/A. |
| Equipment charge: Flipchart. | Per day. | £4.33 | £0.87 | £5.20 | N/A. |
School Meals / Lunch Club
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| School meals - primary. | 2 course meal. | £3.70 | £0.00 | £3.70 | N/A. |
| School meals - secondary. | 2 course meal. | £3.80 | £0.00 | £3.80 | N/A. |
| School meals - adult. | 2 course meal. | £3.83 | £0.77 | £4.60 | N/A. |
| Lunch club. | 2 course meal. | £7.42 | £1.48 | £8.90 | N/A. |
| Commercial events (smaller schools). | Per event. | £154.17 | £30.83 | £185.00 | N/A. |
| Commercial events (Kirkwall Grammar School (KGS), Stromness Academy and Papdale School. | Per event. | £241.67 | £48.33 | £290.00 | N/A. |
| Willow Tree hourly rate. | Hourly rate charged per session. | £7.50 | £0.00 | £7.50 | N/A. |
| Meals - nursery. | 2 course meal. | £3.10 | £0.00 | £3.10 | N/A. |
| Hourly rate for 3 to 5 year olds for hours above 1140. | Hourly rate. | £6.30 | £0.00 | £6.30 | N/A. |
Libraries and Archive
Libraries
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inter-Library Loan. | Per request. | £19.08 | £3.82 | £22.90 | N/A. |
| Inter-Library Loan - Student concession. | Per request. | £9.58 | £1.92 | £11.50 | On production of a valid Matriculation Card. |
| Inter-Library Loan renewal. | Per request. | £6.50 | £1.30 | £7.80 | N/A. |
| Inter-Library Loan return postage charges. | Per request. | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | Will charge the actual postage costs as this will vary per item. |
| Administration fee for overdue invoice. | Per invoice. | £8.67 | £1.73 | £10.40 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A4 black and white. | Single sided. | £0.25 | £0.05 | £0.30 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A4 black and white. | Double sided. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A3 black and white. | Single sided. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A3 black and white. | Double sided. | £0.42 | £0.08 | £0.50 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A4 colour. | Single sided. | £0.58 | £0.12 | £0.70 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A4 colour. | Double sided. | £1.08 | £0.22 | £1.30 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A3 colour. | Single sided. | £1.17 | £0.23 | £1.40 | N/A. |
| Photocopying A3 colour. | Double sided. | £2.25 | £0.45 | £2.70 | N/A. |
| Internet printing. | Per item. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| Scan. | Per item. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Up to 15 minutes. | £1.25 | £0.25 | £1.50 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Up to 30 minutes. | £1.67 | £0.33 | £2.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Up to 45 minutes. | £2.08 | £0.42 | £2.50 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Up to 1 hour. | £2.50 | £0.50 | £3.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Between 1-2 hours. | £4.17 | £0.83 | £5.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Between 2-3 hours. | £5.83 | £1.17 | £7.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Between 3-4 hours. | £8.33 | £1.67 | £10.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Between 4-5 hours. | £11.67 | £2.33 | £14.00 | N/A. |
| 3D Printing. | Between 5-6 hours. | £16.67 | £3.33 | £20.00 | N/A. |
Archive
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Library tote bag. | Per Bag. | To collect in person £12.00 | To post it will be £12.00 plus p+p. | N/A. | |
| Book covers. | Per book cover. | £1.40 | £0.20 | £1.60 | N/A. |
| Laminating A4. | Per sheet. | £1.21 | £0.19 | £1.40 | N/A. |
| Laminating A3. | Per sheet. | £1.93 | £0.27 | £2.20 | N/A. |
| Bulk printing (50-99 pages). | Per page. | £0.27 | £0.03 | £0.30 | N/A. |
| Bulk printing (over 100 pages). | Per page. | £0.18 | £0.02 | £0.20 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A4 black and white. | Single sided. | £0.25 | £0.05 | £0.30 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A4 black and white. | Double sided. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A3 black and white. | Single sided. | £0.33 | £0.07 | £0.40 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A3 black and white. | Double sided. | £0.42 | £0.08 | £0.50 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A4 colour. | Single sided. | £0.58 | £0.12 | £0.70 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A4 colour. | Double sided. | £1.08 | £0.22 | £1.30 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A3 colour. | Single sided. | £1.17 | £0.23 | £1.40 | N/A. |
| Non archival photocopying A3 colour. | Double sided. | £2.25 | £0.45 | £2.70 | N/A. |
| Handling charge. | Per 50 copies. | £13.00 | £2.60 | £15.60 | N/A. |
| Microform copy (electronic or printed). | Per image. | £2.17 | £0.43 | £2.60 | N/A. |
| Microform copy of a whole historical newspaper. | Per edition. | £17.33 | £3.47 | £20.80 | N/A. |
| Solicitor/Legal requests for Wills and Confirmations (including copies). | Per Request. | £21.67 | £4.33 | £26.00 | N/A. |
| Remote vehicle registration enquiries (includes copies). | Per request. | £8.67 | £1.73 | £10.40 | N/A. |
| Themed Archive Tour. | Per person. | £10.00 | £2.00 | £12.00 | N/A. |
Healthy Living Centres
Stronsay / St Maragaret’s Hope / Sanday / Shapinsay / North Walls / Westray / Rousay
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitness Suite. | Per session. | £8.00 | £0.00 | £8.00 | N/A. |
| Full induction to Fitness Suite. | Per induction. | £8.00 | £0.00 | £8.00 | N/A. |
| Fitness programme for individuals. | Per programme. | £31.50 | £0.00 | £31.50 | N/A. |
| 30 mins exercise class. | Per class. | £6.50 | £0.00 | £6.50 | N/A. |
| 45-60 mins exercise class. | Per class. | £9.00 | £0.00 | £9.00 | N/A. |
| Fitness room. | Per hour. | £57.00 | £0.00 | £57.00 | N/A. |
5. Orkney Health and Care
Care Charges
Please click here for further information via the Orkney Island Council web page.
Home Care and Meal Charges
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential care – Local Authority. | Per week. | £1,340.00 | £0.00 | £1,340.00 | As per National Assistance Act Charging Regulations. |
| Residential care – Private (CoSLA). | Per week. | £670.15 | £0.00 | £670.15 | As per agreed National Care Home Contract Agreement Fee. |
| Nursing care – (CoSLA). | Per week. | £696.73 | £0.00 | £696.73 | As per agreed National Care Home Contract Agreement Fee. |
| Very sheltered housing. | Per week. | £478.20 | £0.00 | £478.20 | As per policy. The buffer rate is 25%. |
| Supported accommodation. | Per week. | £2,573.00 | £0.00 | £2,573.00 | As per policy. |
| Respite care – Elderly. | Per week. | £670.15 | £0.00 | £670.15 | As per agreed National Care Home Contract Agreement Fee. |
| Respite care – Disability. | Per week. | £696.73 | £0.00 | £696.73 | As per agreed National Care Home Contract Agreement Fee. |
| Day Centre attendance. | Per session. | £13.00 | £0.00 | £13.00 | N/A. |
| Day Centre attendance - LD. | Per session. | £5.60 | £0.00 | £5.60 | N/A. |
| Telecare Mainland Service. | Per week. | £4.40 | £0.00 | £4.40 | N/A. |
| Telecare Isles Service. | Per week. | £2.10 | £0.00 | £2.10 | N/A. |
| Home care. | Per hour. | £29.63 | £0.00 | £29.63 | Maximum charge based on direct salary costs only (includes the 10% enhancement for unsociable hours). |
| Day care meals. | Starter or dessert. | £3.65 | £0.00 | £3.65 | N/A. |
| Day care meals. | Main course only. | £6.00 | £0.00 | £6.00 | N/A. |
| Day care meals. | Two course meal. | £7.40 | £0.00 | £7.40 | N/A. |
| Day care meals. | Three course meal. | £8.70 | £0.00 | £8.70 | N/A. |
Selbro Resource Centre – Hatston Industrial Estate, Kirkwall
| Charge Category/Details | Charging Basis | 2026 to 2027 Rate | VAT | Gross | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selbro Resource Centre - Hire of Resource Room. | Up to half a day. | £17.70 | £0.00 | £17.70 | N/A. |
| Selbro Resource Centre- Hire of Resource Room. | Full day. | £34.90 | £0.00 | £34.90 | N/A. |
6. Guidance Notes relating to Lets
Who the Charges Apply To
Our standard hire charges apply to:
- Local voluntary organisations
- Private individuals
- Commercial users
Some groups may be eligible for free use of certain facilities, including heat and lighting. These groups include:
- Youth organisations
- Senior citizens’ groups
- Community education groups
If a youth organisation is using a facility for fund-raising, the normal hire fee will apply.
Charity Fund-Raising Discount
If a booking is being used to raise money for a national or locally recognised charity, the hirer may receive a 50% reduction on the hire fee.
To qualify, the organisation must provide a written statement confirming that:
- All proceeds (after legitimate expenses) will be donated to the charity.
Performing Rights Society (PRS) Fees
If music is played during your event, PRS fees may apply. These will be added where required.
Additional Staffing Costs
If your booking requires janitorial or stewarding services, these will be charged separately. Please note:
- Higher rates apply for weekend bookings.
For more information, please contact Education, Communities and Housing Services.
7. Guidance Notes on VAT Levy on letting of facilities
Hiring rooms for meetings or general use
- Most room hires for meetings, training or community use are not subject to VAT.
- If you choose extra services or equipment, VAT may be added to those extras.
Hiring sports facilities
Some sports bookings are exempt from VAT, meaning no VAT is added to the hire charge. This applies when any one of the following conditions is met:
The booking lasts more than 24 hours
A single continuous hire of over 24 hours is VAT-free.
A block booking of 10 or more sessions
A series of bookings is VAT-free if all of these apply:
- At least 10 sessions
- Same activity each time
- Same facility each time
- Sessions are 1–14 days apart
- A written agreement covers the whole series
- The hirer is a school, club, or association
- The hirer has exclusive use during each session
The facility is used for a non-sporting purpose
If a sports hall or pitch is used for something other than sport (e.g., exams, fairs, events), the hire is VAT-free.
Extra services and equipment
Some things are included automatically, and some are optional extras:
Included as part of the hire (no extra VAT)
These follow the same VAT treatment as the main booking:
- Changing rooms
- Standard lighting
- Basic supervision
Optional extras (VAT will be added)
These are treated as separate services and are charged at the standard VAT rate:
- Floodlighting for special matches
- Lifeguard services
- Cloakroom attendants
- Specialist or additional equipment
VAT is only added to the cost of these extras, not the whole booking.