Occupiers of rateable commercial properties such as shops, offices, factories, warehouses, hotels and licensed premises must pay commercial rates on their property to the local authority.
Local authorities provide up to date information to the public about services, activities and events through various media channels including websites, social media platforms, radio, press releases, and alert services.
Local authorities may charge those who benefit from the response of the fire service to domestic and commercial fires, chimney fires, road traffic accidents and false alarm incidents.
Local authorities, together with other stakeholders, manage public health and safety by regularly inspecting local authority buildings and work activities, investigating accidents and incidents and taking appropriate action.
Local authorities may manage heritage buildings and sites to protect their historic, cultural and social importance and secure their long term future for the benefit of the community.
Local authorities manage local elections where successful candidates are elected to the council to represent their community as councillors for five years.