Westmeath County Council

Commercial Rates Waiver Scheme 2026

To Encourage the Use of Vacant Commercial Premises

At the Statutory Budget Meeting of Westmeath County Council held on 24 November 2025, the Elected Members passed a resolution to introduce a Rates Waiver Scheme to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises. The property must have been continuously vacant for a minimum of 6 months prior to the date of occupancy, must be owned by the applicant or subject to a minimum 12 month lease and must be commercially rated.

Successful applicants will receive a waiver of commercial rates equivalent to 75% of the rate demand in year 1, 50% in year 2 and 25% in year 3.

The Scheme will come into operation from 1 January 2026 and further details, including the online application form and eligible criteria, are available on the Council’s website www.westmeathcoco.ie at the following link Waiver Scheme

Queries in relation to this Waiver Scheme should be referred by email to rates@westmeathcoco.ie or by telephone to 044 93 38959.

Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 17/12/2025