Background and Authority

The local Agency Formation Commission is required to adopt a sphere of influence for each governmental jurisdiction. A sphere of influence is defined as a "plan for the probable ultimate boundaries and service area of a local governmental agency." An adopted sphere of influence is generally used as a planning tool to provide guidance in reviewing individual proposals, to promote efficient provision of organized community services and prevent duplication of service delivery. Inclusion within an agency's sphere does not guarantee that an area will automatically be annexed. The sphere is only one of several factors the commission is required to consider in reviewing individual proposals.