Cannabis Compliance in New Jersey
Last reviewed · By Chad Griffith
New Jersey CRC regulates a fast-growing market that opened to adult-use in 2022. Strong social equity and microbusiness programs. Detailed packaging and labeling rules. Active enforcement particularly around unlicensed competition.
New Jersey Cannabis Compliance — Top Requirements
- METRC reporting on most events within 24 hours
- 60-day minimum video retention
- Detailed packaging requirements including child-resistant features
- Microbusiness license category with reduced fees and capital requirements
- Social equity priority licensing in qualified areas
- 5+ year retention on cannabis transaction records
| Regulator | New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) (official site) |
| Rule set | NJAC 17:30 / NJAC 17:30A |
| Track-and-trace | METRC |
| Record retention | 5+ years |
| Video retention | 60 days minimum |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates cannabis in New Jersey?
Cannabis in New Jersey is regulated by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC). The official rule set is published in NJAC 17:30 / NJAC 17:30A. The regulator is responsible for licensing, METRC reporting enforcement, lab testing oversight, transport rules, and operational compliance enforcement.
What track-and-trace system does New Jersey use?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
New Jersey requires 5+ years retention on all cannabis transaction records. Retention applies even if a license is surrendered or revoked. Records must be retrievable to New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) inspectors within state-specified response windows, typically 24-72 hours.
What video retention is required in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires 60 days minimum of video surveillance footage. Coverage typically includes vault, retail floor, scale areas, cultivation rooms, transport loading, and exterior. Camera failures must be reported to New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) within 24 hours.