| name | Public Benefit Statement |
| description | A document articulating how the proposed development contributes to the public good. |
10. Public Benefit Statement
What It Is
A document articulating how the proposed development contributes to the public good — beyond just meeting policy requirements. It addresses community benefits, sustainability, affordability contributions, and public realm improvements.
Why It Matters
- Persuasive in applications where discretionary approval is needed
- Some municipalities require public benefit discussions for increased density
- Community Benefits Charges (CBCs) replaced the old Section 37 system — understanding what community benefits were historically negotiated helps frame the proposal
- OLT considers public benefit when evaluating appeals
Governing Law
- Planning Act, s. 37.1 — Community Benefits Charges
- O. Reg. 509/20 — CBC regulations
- Planning Act, s. 37 — Legacy agreements (still apply to pre-Bill 23 applications)
- Official Plan policies on public benefits and community services
- Inclusionary Zoning (Planning Act, s. 35.2) — For Protected Major Transit Station Areas
How to Build It
PUBLIC BENEFIT STATEMENT
1. HOUSING SUPPLY CONTRIBUTION
- Number of new units being created
- Contribution to municipal housing targets
- Unit types serving underserved demographics
2. AFFORDABILITY (if applicable)
- Any affordable units proposed (and at what AMR threshold)
- Inclusionary zoning compliance (if in PMTSA)
- Rental vs. ownership tenure
3. PUBLIC REALM IMPROVEMENTS
- Streetscape improvements (sidewalk widening, tree planting)
- Public art contributions
- Community space provision
- Parkland dedication or cash-in-lieu
4. SUSTAINABILITY
- Energy efficiency measures (Toronto Green Standard tier)
- Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
- Stormwater management beyond minimum requirements
- Green roof or enhanced landscaping
5. TRANSPORTATION
- Reduced parking supporting transit usage
- Bicycle parking and facilities
- TDM (Transportation Demand Management) measures
6. COMMUNITY BENEFITS CHARGES
- Estimated CBC payable (if applicable)
- How CBC funds will support community infrastructure
