In order to comply with their marijuana license, growers and handlers must follow certain security requirements. These regulations have to do with video surveillance, alarms, and product traceability.
In this article, we will focus on the most important security camera system regulations that cannabis grow ops must follow.
Video quality requirements
Based on current regulations on video quality, cameras must be placed in a way that allows distinct and clear identification of any individual that is currently located on the premises.
Laws also state that every perimeter fence or gate that encloses an outdoor grow operation must have a video monitoring system to identify every activity within 20 feet of the perimeter’s exterior.
Finally, video cameras must have a minimum resolution of 640 x 470 pixels. This last requirement is the trickiest to implement for various reasons. First, 640×470 is not a known resolution in surveillance. Second, if such a resolution existed, you would not be able to identify somebody at 20 feet, as required by the other previously mentioned law. This can be done only with HD cameras.
Based on these considerations, you should opt for a security camera system that shoots at least 1080P to comply with current laws. Moreover, such a system will also allow you to protect your cannabis growth more effectively.
Camera placement requirements
Numerous laws also deal with the issue of how cameras must be placed.
First of all, these rules require your security camera system to record all entrances and exits of your facility.
Second, every entry point belonging to a grow op’s enclosure must have fixed cameras that can identify any activity within twenty feet of the exterior.
Finally, every area where marijuana is grown, processed, or manufactured should have video cameras. This includes areas dedicated to destroying waste.
In order to comply with these rules, it’s advisable to get professional assistance. By studying your floor plan and the activities in each area, professional video security experts can assist you with the right placement and ensure no current regulation is broken.
Video retention regulations
Finally, some security regulations have to do with the topic of video retention. Based on these laws, cameras must continuously record for 24 hours a day and must be kept for at least 45 days on your recording device. This has important implications for your hard drive space.
The amount of space you need for video storage can vary greatly depending on the subject. For instance, a video of an unchanging landscape won’t require as much storage capacity as a video of a busy road intersection. This is because when there is no change between frames, less data needs to be recorded.
On average, you’ll need to allocate a certain amount of hard drive space for your videos. However, if you experience more or less traffic than expected, this could affect how much space is needed.
It’s crucial to monitor your storage requirements after installation to ensure these estimates are accurate and that you meet applicable regulations, such as those requiring 45 days of storage.
Rules may change from state to state
In certain states, some requirements are stricter than others. For example, they may require operators to implement both on-site and off-site cloud-based video recording.
Ensure you understand the specific regulations of the state where your cannabis grow op is located. If you have any doubts, you should hesitate to contact the responsible local office for more clarification or get advice from legal professionals.
Choosing the right type of camera
Complying with the regulations is only one aspect to consider when setting up your video security camera system. You should also make considerations aimed at maximizing the level of security and protecting your staff, premises, assets, and products.
One essential choice is about the type of cameras that you should install. A fisheye IP camera is one of the best choices for capturing a comprehensive view of a very large camera.
PTZ cameras can also be used on large premises because they offer long-range capturing capabilities.
Finally, you should consider installing infrared areas to ensure that footage is clear even at night and in low light conditions. When installing your video security system, make sure that you avoid blind spots, as these can be used by criminals and other ill-intentioned individuals to escape video recording.
As for the choice between on-site and cloud video storage, the benefits of the second option include higher scalability, remote management, and lower costs.
To Sum It Up
When it comes to installing a video security system in a cannabis grow operation, you must take into account several state regulations which deal with issues like video quality, camera placement, and video retention. Some of these regulations may change from state to state, so it’s important to study the rules of the specific state in which your cannabis op is located.
When selecting the right type of camera, you should aim for devices that allow you to cover a large area while at the same time ensuring that footage is clear even in low light conditions.