In embodiments of mesh network commissioning, a leader device of a mesh network receives a petition to accept a commissioning device as a commissioner to commission joining devices to join the mesh network. The leader device can determine whether to accept or reject the received petition, and transmit a response to the commissioning device with an indication as to whether the received petition is accepted or rejected. In response to a determination of the received petition being accepted, the leader device can update an internal state that tracks an active commissioner for the mesh network.