The Order of the Arrow has three distinct organizational levels: lodges, sections, and regions. Lodges carry out the Order of the Arrow program at the local level and are closely tied with Scouting America councils. Sections consist of several lodges within a geographic region. Similarly, regions consist of sections within a geographic region of the United States. Lodges, sections, and regions each have a distinct set of responsibilities which ensure that the OA program runs smoothly.

Every section is led by a chief, vice chief, and secretary, who each play a crucial role in the planning and execution of the annual section conclave. The section may also lead training seminars, promote national programs of emphasis, and provide resources to local lodges with the end goal of providing generalized support to lodge leaders. The section chief presides over the Council of Chiefs, attended by delegates of each member lodge.