What is the source of authority for an Incident Commander?

The source of authority for an Incident Commander is fundamentally derived from existing laws, agency policies, and procedures. This establishes a formal framework within which the Incident Commander operates. When an Incident Commander is appointed, it is typically based on their agency's established protocols and legal authority, which provide the necessary legitimacy to their role and responsibilities during an incident.

Agency policies and procedures dictate how incidents are to be managed, outlining the hierarchy of command and the decision-making process. This ensures that the Incident Commander is acting within the bounds of the law and the policies of their organization. Such a formal structure is essential for maintaining order, coordination, and efficiency during emergency operations.

In contrast, while prior agreements among responders, external regulatory bodies, and personal experience and training may play a role in guiding an Incident Commander's actions, they do not provide the official authority necessary to assume command. This authority must be rooted in recognized governance and institutional procedures to be effective in the incident management system.