Most operators think that once OCM sends a license approval email, they’re done.
They’re not.
Your first approval from OCM is provisional, not final. It does not authorize you to:
You still have to complete a long list of requirements — many of which are controlled by state, city, and federal rules, not just OCM.
This section explains everything you must finish before your license becomes final and your doors can legally open.
Why This Matters →
StageWhat HappensWhat You Can’t Do YetProvisional LicenseYou’re approved in concept. Start building.No selling, no inventory.Document SubmissionSubmit site plan, SOPs, security, insurance.Still can’t stock or sell.OCM ReviewOCM may request revisions or clarity.Must wait for approval.InspectionThey check physical setup and compliance.You must pass to advance.Final LicenseYou’re fully licensed.Ready to sell legally.
The fastest path to final license? Submit complete, accurate paperwork the first time.
SectionWhat It CoversBuildout & Premises RequirementsWhat your physical space must include, what needs permits, and what must match your OCM-filed floor planSecurity & Storage RequirementsRequired cameras, alarms, vaults, restricted areas, and recordkeeping rulesFacility Layout & ADA AccessLayout, aisles, entrances, counters, and accessibility rules every dispensary must followPre-Opening Compliance RequirementsEverything OCM checks before converting you from provisional to final: inspections, systems, training, documentation
What local building and fire departments require before OCM can sign off — including permits, inspections, and matching your submitted floor plan.
This page answers:
What must be installed, functioning, and documented before OCM will approve your vault, camera coverage, alarms, and restricted-access areas.
This page answers:
All accessibility, layout, aisle-width, and customer-flow rules dispensaries must meet — including ADA standards operators usually don’t know apply to them.
This page answers:
The full checklist of documents, systems, inspections, and approvals required before OCM will convert your provisional license into a final license.
This page answers:
Because if you get the License-to-Launch phase wrong, OCM will not issue your final license — even if you already built your store.
This section prevents the most common mistakes operators make after provisional approval.
Understanding these rules helps you avoid:
