Inspections & Enforcement

New York’s Cash on Delivery (C.O.D.) system is an enforcement mechanism used by the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to address unpaid supplier invoices. When a retailer fails to pay a licensed supplier, the supplier may report the delinquency to OCM. Once reported, the retailer is placed on the C.O.D. List and faces immediate purchasing restrictions until the issue is formally resolved.

This page organizes official rules, bulletins, FAQs, and memos so operators can work with confidence and avoid compliance risks.

This page answers: "What do I need to finish before I can open my dispensary?"

OCM inspects every product on your shelves, and responsibility rests with the retailer, even if the issue originated with the processor or distributor.

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 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.

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.

This page answers, "Where Can I Legally Open a Dispensary, and What Do I Have to Do to Notify the City or Town?"

This page answers: "What do I need to know about choosing a location and building a dispensary that passes inspection?"