The burgeoning New Jersey cannabis market presents significant opportunity for entrepreneurs in the cultivation sector. However, this high-value industry comes with substantial security challenges and stringent regulatory oversight. For cannabis cultivation facilities in the Garden State, a robust security plan is not just a best practice—it’s a mandatory condition for licensing and operation, rigorously enforced by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC).
At Systems Integrations, we understand that navigating the CRC’s security mandates can be complex. This guide breaks down the essential security components your cultivation facility needs to achieve and maintain compliance, protecting your investment, your employees, and your license.
The Foundation of Compliance: N.J.A.C. 17:30-9.10
The core of New Jersey’s cannabis security regulations is found in section 17:30-9.10 of the New Jersey Administrative Code. This section mandates that every licensed cannabis business must implement “effective controls and procedures to guard against unauthorized access, theft, and diversion of cannabis.” This guiding principle drives all specific requirements. Failure in any of these areas constitutes a direct violation of your license.
Key Pillars of a CRC-Compliant Security Plan
Your facility’s security plan must be a multi-layered strategy. The CRC requires a comprehensive approach integrating physical barriers, electronic surveillance, and strict procedural controls.
1. 24/7 Video Surveillance: Your Digital Watchtower
High-resolution video surveillance is non-negotiable. The CRC requires a system that clearly monitors all “critical control activities” around the clock.
Complete Coverage:Cameras must capture all entrances and exits (interior and exterior), all areas where cannabis is grown, processed, stored, or packaged, and any areas used for waste disposal.
Constant Operation: The system must operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without interruption.
Remote Viewing: Your facility must provide the CRC with remote access to video surveillance feeds upon request.
Adequate Lighting: All camera-covered areas, especially exteriors and access points, must be well-lit to ensure clear images at night. Motion-activated lighting can protect cultivation light-dark cycles while maintaining security visibility.
Long-Term Storage: Recordings must be stored securely for a minimum of 30 days, ready for CRC inspection.
2. Access Control: Managing Every Entry Point
You must control and document every individual who enters your facility and moves within it. The goal is limiting entry into sensitive areas to authorized personnel only.
Minimum Access: External access must be kept to a minimum and well-controlled.
Authorized Personnel Only: Implement a system—key cards, fobs, or biometric scanners—that restricts access to cultivation, storage, and processing areas. Maintain an up-to-date list of all authorized personnel.
Visitor Logging: Keep detailed logs for all non-employee visitors, including name, date and time of visit, and purpose on-site. All visitors must be escorted when in or passing through secure areas.
3. Intrusion and Alarm Systems: Immediate Threat Detection
Your facility must be equipped with a professional-grade security alarm system designed for immediate threat notification and response.
Comprehensive Monitoring: The alarm system must be continuously monitored 24/7 by a licensed third-party monitoring service.
Immediate Notification: Upon breach, the system must automatically notify designated personnel and local or state law enforcement.
Backup Power: The system must have a backup power source that activates immediately upon electrical failure and alerts the monitoring station of power loss.
Panic Buttons: Panic buttons must be strategically placed throughout interior and exterior premises for employee safety.
Regular Testing: Conduct maintenance inspections and tests of the alarm system at least every 30 days and maintain logs of these tests.
4. Secure Storage: Protecting Your Most Valuable Asset
Cannabis and cannabis products must be stored in secure, locked areas with strictly limited access. This applies to all stages, from harvested plants to finished products awaiting transport. Security level must be appropriate for the quantity of cannabis on hand.
Beyond the Basics: Cybersecurity and Procedural Security
While cameras and alarms are critical, the CRC also requires protection of electronic systems. Your access control and surveillance systems are valuable targets for sophisticated attackers. Protecting your network with firewalls, secure passwords, and regular updates is essential to prevent digital breaches that could disable your entire security apparatus.
Furthermore, your standard operating procedures (SOPs) for inventory control, waste disposal, and secure transport are integral parts of your overall security plan.
Partner with an Expert for Peace of Mind
Meeting the NJ CRC’s security requirements is a detailed and ongoing process. Partnering with a security integrator who understands both the technology and the specific regulatory landscape is crucial.
The team at Systems Integrations specializes in designing and implementing comprehensive, compliant security solutions for high-stakes industries. We conduct thorough risk assessments, select NDAA-compliant equipment, and build layered security strategies that satisfy regulators and protect your business from day one.
We’re licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, with certified technicians trained on all installed systems. Our team includes security industry cybersecurity certified engineers who understand the unique intersection of physical and digital security threats facing cannabis facilities.
Don’t leave your license to chance. Contact Systems Integrations at (866) 417-3787 to schedule a security compliance consultation for your cannabis cultivation facility.