How does LAFCo use its authority in boundary changes?

LAFCos regulate, through approval or denial, the boundary changes proposed by other public agencies or individuals. LAFCos do not have the power to initiate boundary changes on their own, except for proposals involving the dissolution or consolidation of special districts and the merging of subsidiary districts.

Typical applicants might include:

  • Individual home owners requesting annexation to a sewer district due to a failing septic system.
  • Developers seeking annexation to cities in order to obtain urban services for new housing.
  • Cities wishing to annex pockets or "islands" of unincorporated land located within their borders in order to avoid duplication of services with the county.