What This Section Covers
This section explains the rules that apply to:
- Where your dispensary can legally be located
- How the space must be built and permitted
- How cannabis inventory must be stored and secured
- What security systems must be installed and operational before opening
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Zoning and Local Proximity Compliance
Your dispensary must be located in a legally permitted zoning district and must comply with buffer requirements.
This includes:
- Municipal opt-out rules
- Distance from schools
- Distance from houses of worship
- Distance from other dispensaries
- Local zoning restrictions
This page answers:
- Is my location legal under New York zoning and proximity rules?
- Can OCM deny my license based on where the site is located?
- What happens if another dispensary opens near me?
Building Code, Fire Safety and Occupancy
Your space must comply with local building and fire codes before you can open.
This includes:
- Building department permits
- Fire department inspections
- Egress and exit requirements
- Occupancy limits
- Certificate of Occupancy or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy
This page answers:
- What does the local building department need to approve before construction?
- What safety elements does OCM inspect before issuing final approval?
- Can I open with pending permits?
Inventory Storage Room Setup and Secure Access
Cannabis inventory must be stored in a structurally secure, monitored, and restricted area.
Requirements include:
- Solid walls and ceiling
- Commercial-grade locking hardware
- Controlled access
- Continuous camera coverage
- Separation from public areas
This page answers:
- How do I build a compliant storage room or vault?
- What storage issues cause immediate inspection failures?
- Can I store inventory in multiple rooms?
Security Systems and Monitoring Requirements
Security systems must be installed and operational before OCM allows you to open.
This includes:
- 24-hour video surveillance
- Alarm systems covering perimeter and storage
- Backup power
- Access control systems
- Log retention requirements
This page answers:
- What security systems must be installed before opening?
- What camera placement rules are enforced?
- What security failures trigger violations?
Inspection and Pre-Opening Review
Before opening, OCM may inspect:
- Floor plan alignment with approved application
- Camera coverage and retention
- Alarm functionality
- Secure storage construction
- Separation between public and restricted areas
This page explains:
- What inspectors check before approving opening
- What causes inspection delays or failure
- How buildout mistakes impact licensure
Why This Matters
Location and buildout errors are among the most expensive mistakes operators make.
This section helps you avoid:
- Lease commitments at noncompliant addresses
- Denials due to zoning or buffer violations
- Delays caused by missing permits
- Failed inspections from camera blind spots or alarm gaps
- Storage rooms that do not meet structural requirements
- Shutdowns related to fire safety or access control
Physical compliance is not cosmetic. It determines whether you are allowed to open and remain operational.
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