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ARTICLE · 04 AUGUST 2025

NY OCM Issues Key Correction On 500 Foot Distance School Zone Requirement

Duane Morris LLP
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The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has issued a significant correction to its previous guidance on how to measure the required 500-foot distance between retail cannabis dispensaries and schools.

United StatesCannabis & Hemp
Michael D. Schwamm
Michael D. Schwamm
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The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has issued a significant correction to its previous guidance on how to measure the required 500-foot distance between retail cannabis dispensaries and schools. This change has immediate and potentially wide-ranging implications for both pending applicants and currently licensed dispensaries across New York State.

Prior Guidance
OCM had long advised applicants that the 500-foot proximity restriction should be measured in a straight line from the center of the nearest school entrance to the center of the dispensary's main entrance—only considering entrances regularly used by patrons. In addition, this rule applied only when the dispensary and school were located on the same street or road.

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Disclaimer: This Alert has been prepared and published for informational purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice. For more information, please see the firm's full disclaimer.

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