Getting started

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) regulates how your dispensary is built, altered, and approved for lawful use. If work is not permitted, inspected, and signed off by DOB, you cannot legally open and may be shut down at any time. These rules apply even if you have never dealt with construction, permits, architects, or Certificates of Occupancy before.

The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) enforces fire safety rules for all retail businesses in NYC, including cannabis dispensaries. These rules apply regardless of store size, layout, or building type, and inspections can occur at any time.Fire safety violations are common, costly, and can result in immediate enforcement action.

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) regulates how businesses store trash, manage waste, and maintain clean sidewalks. These rules apply daily and are actively enforced against retail businesses across the city. Sanitation violations are among the most common tickets issued to NYC retailers and can result in repeat fines if not corrected.

New York cannabis operators are regulated by more than the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Every dispensary must also comply with state and city laws enforced by agencies that control zoning, construction, safety, labor, sanitation, and taxes. These requirements apply at every stage, from site selection to daily operations.