Broadland & South Norfolk Custom and Self-Build Housing SPD
10. Community Infrastructure Levy Comment
10.1 One of the ways in which self-build housing is supported is through exemption from Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). This exemption is not automatically applied and needs to be claimed by the applicant before the commencement of development. The exemption cannot be claimed retrospectively after construction has commenced.
10.2 For multi-unit schemes (for example, where a builder sells serviced plots or a community group works with a developer), applicants should consider applying for a phased planning permission to allow each plot to be classed as a separate chargeable development. This will prevent the charge being triggered for all plots within the wider development as soon as development commences on the first dwelling.
10.3 A phasing plan is also recommended for planning applications for a single self-build home if the developer wishes to commence work on for example highway access and/or servicing to the plot boundary without triggering the commencement of development for CIL purposes on the self-build dwelling.
10.4 Once a self-build plot has commenced development the self-builder must be the person to build out, or commission the build out, of the development. Self-build exemption cannot be claimed by another person in the event that the plot is sold or transferred after commencement.
10.5 The most up to date information about the CIL exemption for self-build properties can be found online at Exemption for self build properties – Broadland and South Norfolk (southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk). This page includes information about how to claim CIL exemption and also the evidence that is required upon completion.
10.6 Whilst self-build units can claim exemption from paying CIL, the overall development may trigger other infrastructure requirements. Amongst other things, those proposing larger schemes will need to consider whether there will be a need to provide affordable housing units and children's play space/recreational space. The relevant Council can provide guidance on the up-to-date requirements at the time an application is proposed to be submitted.
