The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has taken a decisive step to enforce state regulations, identifying 152 cannabis retailers that are currently in violation of proximity rules governing the location of dispensaries. According to the agency, these businesses are operating too close to schools and places of worship, violating New York’s cannabis law established in 2022.
In a letter sent via email, the OCM notified both licensees and applicants who were found to be out of compliance. The office explained that a recent internal review revealed flaws in the process used to measure the distance between retail dispensaries and sensitive areas like school grounds and houses of worship. As a result, dozens of locations now face possible consequences, including potential relocation or even license revocation.
State law clearly outlines these distance requirements: cannabis dispensaries cannot operate within 500 feet of a school or 200 feet of a place of worship. These standards are part of the regulatory framework aimed at balancing the growth of New York’s cannabis industry with public safety and community well-being.
In a statement, the Governor’s team emphasized her administration’s commitment to maintaining a transparent, equitable cannabis market:
“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York has strengthened its nation-leading cannabis market by addressing any problems created by previous agency leadership – and that work continues today as we correct this unacceptable oversight. The State is taking immediate action to support any cannabis store owners impacted by this issue, and the Governor will continue to ensure that New York’s billion-dollar cannabis industry remains the most equitable adult-use cannabis market in the country.”
The OCM's proactive approach comes at a critical time for New York’s adult-use cannabis industry, which has faced numerous regulatory delays and challenges since its inception. Ensuring that dispensaries comply with location-based laws is seen as essential to maintaining public trust, particularly in communities where school safety and religious institutions are central to local concerns.
While some licensees may now be forced to reassess their business locations, the OCM has indicated that it will work closely with impacted retailers to find solutions that are both lawful and supportive of their operations.
As New York’s cannabis industry continues to expand, the OCM remains a key player in enforcing regulations, correcting past missteps, and guiding the market toward long-term success.
