Section 37 benefits (named after the section of Ontario's Planning Act) were community benefits provided by developers in exchange for increased density or height beyond zoning limits. When municipalities approved developments exceeding normal zoning, developers contributed cash payments or facilities like community space, public art, affordable housing units, or park improvements. Section 37 was controversial—critics saw it as 'selling' density, while supporters valued the community benefits. Ontario's Community Benefits Charges system has replaced Section 37, creating a more standardized approach. The underlying concept—obtaining community benefits from development that receives planning permissions—remains important in development negotiations.