What is FAR 52.204-1?

FAR 52.204-1 (Approval of Contract.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the ethics category.

When is FAR 52.204-1 required?

FAR 52.204-1 is typically required when the contracting officer determines it's applicable to the specific procurement. Check the solicitation's Section I for included clauses.

Does FAR 52.204-1 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.204-1 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

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52.204-1 — Approval of Contract.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.204-1 — Approval of Contract.. This clause is part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and may be included in government contracts as a solicitation provision or contract clause.

Official Regulation Text

52.204-1 Approval of Contract. As prescribed in 4.103, insert the following clause: Approval of Contract (DEC 1989) This contract is subject to the written approval of . . . . . [ identify title of designated agency official here ] and shall not be binding until so approved. (End of clause) [54 FR 5058, Jan. 31, 1989, as amended at 54 FR 48990, Nov. 28, 1989]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.204-1 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.204-1)

Compliance Checklist

[ identify title of designated agency official here ] and shall not be binding until so approved.

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

No flow-down required

This clause applies only to the prime contract and does not need to be flowed down to subcontractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.