How a BID works
The person or company who proposes a Business Improvement District (BID) must hold a ballot for businesses in the BID area to vote on whether they want this area to become a BID or not.
If the BID goes ahead, these businesses help decide how the BID levy funds should be spent.
Who pays the BID levy
The BID proposal should set out:
- who must pay the levy
- the amount they must pay
- how it is calculated
The proposal should also include details of relief on the BID levy and who is eligible for it. For example, local charities may not need to pay the levy.
You can check the details of your BID.
If you pay the BID levy and need more information about your payments, email business_rates@birmingham.gov.uk.
How long BIDs last
BIDs cannot last longer than 5 years. After this, the BID will automatically end, and the BID company must hold a new ballot.
Who manages the BID
A BID is managed by a BID body. This is often a private company.
Most BID bodies are not-for-profit companies. These are separate from Birmingham City Council. They are responsible for developing and implementing the proposal, which outlines how the BID will work.
We support BIDs by managing billing and collecting the BID levy. We hold the levy in a ring-fenced revenue account on behalf of the BID body.
Page last updated: 22 July 2026
