D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 8-B, § 3303
3303.1 When information necessary for planning purposes cannot be obtained from prospective offerors by more economical and less formal means, the contracting officer may determine in writing that a solicitation for information and planning purposes is justified. If this determination is approved by the Director of Procurement, the contracting officer shall then issue the solicitation.
3303.2 A contracting officer shall not use a formal RFP as a solicitation for information or planning purposes.
SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 39 DCR 2566 (April 10, 1992).