What is FAR 52.211-7?

FAR 52.211-7 (Alternatives to Government-unique standards.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the general category.

When is FAR 52.211-7 required?

FAR 52.211-7 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 52.211-7 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.211-7 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

Low RiskFARGeneral

52.211-7 — Alternatives to Government-unique standards.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.211-7 — Alternatives to Government-unique standards.. 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

52.211-7 Alternatives to Government-unique standards. As prescribed in 11.107(b), insert the following provision: Alternatives to Government-Unique Standards (NOV 1999) (a) This solicitation includes Government-unique standards. The offeror may propose voluntary consensus standards that meet the Government's requirements as alternatives to the Government-unique standards. The Government will accept use of the voluntary consensus standard instead of the Government-unique standard if it meets the Government's requirements unless inconsistent with law or otherwise impractical. (b) If an alternative standard is proposed, the offeror must furnish data and/or information regarding the alternative in sufficient detail for the Government to determine if it meets the Government's requirements. Acceptance of the alternative standard is a unilateral decision made solely at the discretion of the Government. (c) Offers that do not comply with the Government-unique standards specified in this solicitation may be determined to be nonresponsive or unacceptable. The offeror may submit an offer that complies with the Government-unique standards specified in this solicitation, in addition to any proposed alternative standard(s). (End of provision) [64 FR 51853, Sept. 24, 1999]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.211-7 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.211-7)

Compliance Checklist

(b) If an alternative standard is proposed, the offeror must furnish data and/or information regarding the alternative in sufficient detail for the Government to determine if it meets the Government's requirements.

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.