ERROR_INVALID_OWNER - 1307 (0x51B)

This security ID may not be assigned as the owner of this object.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Meaning

The ERROR_INVALID_OWNER error code, with the numeric value of 1307 and the hexadecimal representation of 0x51B, indicates that a specified security identifier (SID) cannot be assigned as the owner of an object in the Windows operating system. This error is typically encountered during operations involving access control or ownership changes.

Error Details

This error code is specific to scenarios where an attempt has been made to change the ownership of an object, such as a file, directory, or registry key, using a security identifier that does not meet the necessary criteria for assignment. The system enforces strict rules regarding which SIDs can be assigned as owners due to security and integrity considerations.

Usage Context

The ERROR_INVALID_OWNER error is commonly encountered in scenarios where an application or script attempts to modify the ownership of an object, such as during file operations, directory management, or registry manipulation. It may also appear when using tools that interact with the Windows Security subsystem.

Developer Interpretation

When encountering this error, developers should consider the following:

  • Verify the security identifier (SID) being used for the operation is valid and correctly formatted.
  • Ensure the SID corresponds to a user or group account that has the necessary permissions to be assigned as an owner of the object.
  • Check if there are any system-level restrictions or policies in place that prevent certain SIDs from being assigned as owners.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER (1207, 0x4B3): Indicates a parameter passed to the function is invalid.
  • ERROR_ACCESS_DENIED (5, 0x5): The system denies access to the requested operation due to insufficient permissions.
  • ERROR_NOT_OWNER (1308, 0x51C): The process does not have ownership of the object and cannot perform certain operations.

FAQ

Q: What causes the ERROR_INVALID_OWNER error?

A: This error typically occurs when an invalid or unsupported security identifier is used to change the ownership of an object. It may also be due to system-level restrictions preventing certain SIDs from being assigned as owners.

Q: How can I resolve this issue?

A: Ensure that the SID you are using for the operation is valid and correctly formatted, and that it corresponds to a user or group account with the necessary permissions. Review any system policies or restrictions that may be in place.

Summary

The ERROR_INVALID_OWNER error code indicates an invalid security identifier was used to change the ownership of an object. Developers should verify the SID's validity and ensure it meets the necessary criteria for assignment. Understanding this error is crucial for managing access control and ownership changes in Windows environments.