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NYC Fire Safety (FDNY)
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.
What This Covers
- Fire safety operating requirements
- Fire extinguisher standards
- Emergency lighting and exit signage
- Storage and clearance rules
- Inspection expectations
- Enforcement authority
Fire Safety Basics
Dispensaries must operate in a way that prevents fire hazards and allows safe evacuation.
- Exits must be clear, unlocked, and never blocked
- Hallways, stairways, and emergency paths must remain unobstructed
- Electrical cords, power strips, and devices must be in safe condition
- Daisy-chaining cords or strips is prohibited
- Exit signs must be illuminated and visible
- All equipment and installations must comply with NYC Fire Code
Blocked exits, unsafe storage, or electrical hazards result in violations.
Fire Extinguishers
Sets requirements for type, placement, and maintenance.
- At least one 2A:10BC fire extinguisher per 3,000 square feet
- Extinguishers must be wall-mounted, visible, and accessible
- Staff must know where extinguishers are located
- Each extinguisher must have a current inspection tag from a licensed company
- Monthly visual inspections must be logged internally
Missing or expired extinguishers are among the most common FDNY violations.
Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs
Ensures safe evacuation during power outages.
- Emergency lighting must activate automatically during outages
- Exit signs must remain illuminated at all times
- Backup batteries must function and be tested
- Walkways, stairs, and exits must remain lit during emergencies
Non-functioning emergency lighting results in immediate citations.
Storage Rules
Controls how materials are stored to reduce fire risk.
- No storage in hallways, exit paths, or under stairways
- Product and boxes may not be stacked above safe heights (generally about 8 feet unless secured)
- Storage areas must remain organized and accessible
- Electrical panels require at least three feet of clear space
- Sprinklers, detectors, alarms, and fire suppression equipment must remain unobstructed
Cluttered storage is a frequent cause of violations.
Inspections
Explains what FDNY inspectors review.
- Fire extinguisher type, placement, condition, and inspection tags
- Emergency lighting and exit sign operation
- Clear and accessible exit routes
- Electrical safety (cords, wiring, power strips)
- Storage organization and clearance
- Access to sprinklers, alarms, and suppression systems
- Required certificates or postings
FDNY may issue fines on the spot for unsafe conditions.
Enforcement and Oversight
Identifies the enforcing authority.
- Enforcement agency: New York City Fire Department (FDNY)
- FDNY may issue violations, fines, or orders to correct hazards immediately
What Operators Usually Miss
- Fire inspections can occur without notice
- Storage violations often trigger multiple citations at once
- Emergency lighting failures are cited immediately
- Electrical cord misuse is heavily enforced
When This Comes Up
- Pre-opening inspections
- Routine operations
- After complaints or incidents
- License renewal reviews
What Happens If You Ignore This
- FDNY violations and fines
- Immediate correction orders
- Increased inspection frequency
- Risk of temporary closure
