What is FAR 52.251-1?

FAR 52.251-1 (Government Supply Sources.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the government-sources category.

When is FAR 52.251-1 required?

FAR 52.251-1 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 52.251-1 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.251-1 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

Low RiskFARgovernment-sources

52.251-1 — Government Supply Sources.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.251-1 — Government Supply Sources.. 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

52.251-1 Government Supply Sources. As prescribed in 51.107, insert the following clause: Government Supply Sources (APR 2012) The Contracting Officer may issue the Contractor an authorization to use Government supply sources in the performance of this contract. Title to all property acquired by the Contractor under such an authorization shall vest in the Government unless otherwise specified in the contract. The provisions of the clause at FAR 52.245-1, Government Property, apply to all property acquired under such authorization. (End of clause) [77 FR 12947, Mar. 2, 2012]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.251-1 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.251-1)

Compliance Checklist

Title to all property acquired by the Contractor under such an authorization shall vest in the Government unless otherwise specified in the contract.

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

BidStride automatically scans your RFPs for 52.251-1

Stop hunting through solicitations manually. BidStride identifies every FAR and DFARS clause in your RFP, flags risk level, and surfaces compliance requirements before you submit your bid.

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.