When LAFCO approves the annexation of territory to a city or special district there are specific factors which must be considered in the review of a proposal. These are specified in Section 56668 of the Government Code, and include, but are not limited to: 

• Land area and land use.
• Topography, natural boundaries, and drainage basins.
• Population, population density, and proximity to other populated areas.
• The likelihood of significant growth in the area and in adjacent incorporated and unincorporated areas during the next ten years.
• The effect of the proposed action and of alternate actions on adjacent areas, mutual social and economic interests, and the local governmental structure of the County.
• The present cost and adequacy of governmental services and controls in the area.
• Probable effects of the proposal and of alternatives on the cost and adequacy of services and controls in the area and adjacent areas.
• Conformity with appropriate city or county general and specific plans.
• The "sphere of influence" of any local agency which may be applicable to the proposal being reviewed.
• Per capita assessed valuation.
• The definiteness and certainty of the boundaries of the territory, the non-conformance of proposed boundaries with lines of assessment or ownership, the creation of islands or corridors of unincorporated territory and other similar matters affecting the proposed boundary.
• The conformity of the proposal and its anticipated effects with adopted Commission policies on providing planned, orderly efficient patterns of urban development.