Cannabis Compliance in Massachusetts
Last reviewed · By Chad Griffith
Massachusetts CCC operates one of the most rigorous cannabis programs in the country, particularly around social equity and disposal requirements. Combined medical and adult-use program. Sophisticated recall plan requirements borrowed from FDA food practice.
Massachusetts Cannabis Compliance — Top Requirements
- Detailed recall plan required for all licensees with annual review
- METRC reporting on most events within 24 hours
- 90-day video retention with rigorous coverage requirements
- Social equity ownership disclosures and mandatory program participation
- Stringent disposal rules including witnessed destruction with photographic documentation
- 3-year minimum retention on all cannabis transaction records
| Regulator | Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) (official site) |
| Rule set | 935 CMR 500 / 935 CMR 501 |
| Track-and-trace | METRC |
| Record retention | 3+ years (CMR 935 500.105) |
| Video retention | 90 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates cannabis in Massachusetts?
Cannabis in Massachusetts is regulated by the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC). The official rule set is published in 935 CMR 500 / 935 CMR 501. The regulator is responsible for licensing, METRC reporting enforcement, lab testing oversight, transport rules, and operational compliance enforcement.
What track-and-trace system does Massachusetts use?
Massachusetts uses METRC for cannabis seed-to-sale tracking. Every plant must be tagged at the immature stage. Every package must carry a unique tag. Every event (planting, harvest, transfer, conversion, sale, destruction) must be reported in the system within state-specific reporting windows.
How long must cannabis records be retained in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires 3+ years (CMR 935 500.105) retention on all cannabis transaction records. Retention applies even if a license is surrendered or revoked. Records must be retrievable to Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) inspectors within state-specified response windows, typically 24-72 hours.
What video retention is required in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires 90 days of video surveillance footage. Coverage typically includes vault, retail floor, scale areas, cultivation rooms, transport loading, and exterior. Camera failures must be reported to Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) within 24 hours.