An agreement that is not binding, solely because the government representative who made it lacked the authority to enter into that agreement on behalf of the government. When a contracting officer's authority has been violated it creates an unauthorized commitment. (FAR Subpart 1.6) For example, the base commanding officer tells the facilities grounds crew COR to trim some trees hanging over the base fence for an upcoming inspection. The contractor happens to be present and agrees to do the work. The COR neglects to inform the contracting officer and clarify the conversation with the parties. The contractor completes the work and bills the government, as it was not a normal task or part of the contract. This action outside the contractor's authority created an unauthorized commitment.