San Joaquin LAFCo has multiple steps in the approval process as the decisions can permanently affect government boundaries, public services, taxes, and land use patterns. The steps are designed to ensure that these decisions are based on evidence, public input, and legal requirements rather than a single agency's preference.

Below are six steps that a proposed project goes through rom the time the application is submitted to San Joaquin LAFCo Offices to the time it goes before the Commission for either approval or denial.

 

Application Received - LAFCo staff review the application for completeness.
 If information is missing, the applicant is asked to provide additional materials.
 
Application Accepted - Once LAFCo staff has received a complete application, processing the application can begin.

Review Period - LAFCo circulates the proposal to affected cities, districts, counties, and other agencies for comment.  Staff will review and prepare a report evaluating service impacts, finances, boundaries, and consistency with LAFCo policies

Public Hearing - The Commission holds a public hearing.  Commissioners consider staff recommendations, public comments, and statutory factors before approving, modifying, or denying the proposal.

Protest proceedings (if required) - Certain proposals, such as annexations or reorganizations, may require a protest hearing.  Depending on the level of protest, the proposal may proceed, require an election, or terminate

Certificate of Completion - Thirty (30) days after the proposal is approved, LAFCo Staff will issue a Certificate of Completion.  This is an official document that formally finalizes a boundary change or government reorganization.