The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has proposed regulations under Part 117 of Title 9 NYCRR to govern a new type of license activity known as Cannabis Showcase Events. These events would allow licensed adult-use cannabis retailers to host temporary pop-up retail events in approved public venues such as farmers markets, public markets, or open-air spaces.
The proposed framework presents an important opportunity to improve brand visibility and consumer access for cultivators, processors, and small retailers across the state. However, there are clear structural constraints, particularly the outright ban on on-site consumption, that could limit the economic and social value of these events if left unaddressed.
Key Features of the Proposed Cannabis Showcase Regulations
Under the draft rules, Cannabis Showcase Events must meet the following conditions:
- Permits are available only to licensed adult use cannabis retailers
- Sales are limited to the permit holding retailer; cultivators, processors, and microbusinesses may only participate to showcase their products and are not allowed to sell them
- Events may run for a maximum of 14 consecutive days and no more than 45 days per location per year
- Events must occur at a public market, farmers market, or other approved pop up site and cannot be held at the retailer’s primary licensed premises
One to One Partnership Requirement Between Cultivators and Processors
One notable structural requirement is the mandatory partnership model:
- Each event must include at least one licensed cultivator and one licensed processor
- If more than one processor participates, the permittee must include an equal number of cultivators. This one to one ratio scales with event size and applies throughout the permitting process
This rule is intended to promote balanced supply chain representation, but it also adds a logistical hurdle for retailers seeking to highlight multiple products or brand partners at a single event.
On Site Consumption Is Prohibited But Central to the Event’s Potential
Under Section 117.4, the proposed regulations explicitly prohibit all forms of on-site consumption. This includes:
- Smoking
- Vaping
- Topicals
- Edibles
This prohibition severely limits the educational, cultural, and commercial potential of these events. Without the ability to observe or participate in product use, consumers cannot meaningfully engage with the showcased products. For small scale brands, particularly cultivators and processors without dedicated retail shelf space, this is a missed opportunity to demonstrate quality and build customer loyalty.
Recommendation for Public Comment
Amend Part 117 to Permit On Site Consumption in Localities That Have Not Opted Out
We recommend a revision to the proposed regulations that would allow designated and controlled consumption areas at Cannabis Showcase Events in jurisdictions that did not opt out of on-site cannabis consumption under New York’s cannabis law. These municipalities have already signaled support for the normalization of adult use cannabis and should not be required to take additional steps to authorize consumption at these events.
Proposed Conditions for Consumption Zones
- Located within or adjacent to the event area, clearly fenced or otherwise restricted
- Strict age verification for individuals 21 and over
- Adequate ventilation and security measures
- No alcohol service or cannabis infused food or beverage sales
- No giveaways or consumption based promotions
- Full compliance with OCM’s advertising and public health rules
This approach balances consumer safety and regulatory oversight with commercial and educational utility. It would also drive economic activity in communities that are already aligned with New York’s cannabis policy objectives.
Structuring Events to Allow Consumption Nearby if Rules Are Not Changed
If the final rules do not permit on site use, event organizers may still create legal workarounds by narrowly defining the event premises in their application. Areas immediately adjacent to the defined event footprint could then potentially be used for on-site consumption, provided local law allows it.
This gives municipalities and retailers some flexibility in preserving consumer experience even within the current restrictions while remaining compliant.
Final Thoughts
The Cannabis Showcase Event framework is a meaningful step forward for cannabis visibility and consumer engagement in New York. But if on site consumption remains prohibited without exception, the ability of these events to drive impact, particularly for cultivators and processors, will be limited.
By allowing municipalities that have not opted out to host controlled consumption areas, New York can reinforce its commitment to equity, transparency, and normalization of legal adult-use cannabis.
Need Help Navigating These New Cannabis Regulations?
If you are a licensee or local official preparing to participate in or authorize these events, Seligson Law P.C. is actively advising clients on:
- Permit strategy
- Compliance planning
- Public comment submissions
