48 CFR § 217.7404-1 - 217.7404-1 Authorization.

---
identifier: "/us/cfr/t48/s217.7404-1"
source: "ecfr"
legal_status: "authoritative_unofficial"
title: "48 CFR § 217.7404-1 - 217.7404-1   Authorization."
title_number: 48
title_name: "Federal Acquisition Regulations System"
section_number: "217.7404-1"
section_name: "217.7404-1   Authorization."
chapter_number: 2
chapter_name: "DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE"
subchapter_number: "C"
subchapter_name: "CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES"
part_number: "217"
part_name: "SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS"
positive_law: false
currency: "2026-03-24"
last_updated: "2026-03-24"
format_version: "1.1.0"
generator: "[email protected]"
authority: "41 U.S.C. 1303 and 48 CFR chapter 1."
regulatory_source: "56 FR 36345, July 31, 1991, unless otherwise noted."
cfr_part: "217"
---


# 217.7404-1 217.7404-1   Authorization.

The contracting officer shall obtain approval from the head of the contracting activity before—

(a) Entering into a UCA. The request for approval must fully explain the need to begin performance before definitization, including the adverse impact on agency requirements resulting from delays in beginning performance.

(b) Including requirements for non-urgent spare parts and support equipment in a UCA. The request should show that inclusion of the non-urgent items is consistent with good business practices and in the best interest of the United States.

(c) Modifying the scope of a UCA when performance has already begun. The request should show that the modification is consistent with good business practices and in the best interests of the United States.