Camera Sightlines and Visibility Requirements in Dispensary Design

• Dispensary cameras must maintain clear, unobstructed sightlines
• Visibility is enforced through architecture, not camera quantity
• Walls, displays, and fixtures can create blind spots
• Sightline mistakes are difficult to fix after construction

Cannabis regulations require continuous visual monitoring of key areas within a dispensary. Cameras alone are not sufficient if architectural elements block visibility. Sightlines are created or destroyed by layout decisions made during architectural planning.

Sales floors, points of sale, vault entrances, receiving areas, and controlled access points typically require uninterrupted camera coverage. Inspectors verify that these areas are clearly visible from installed camera positions.

Tall display cases, decorative partitions, signage, and poorly placed walls often create blind spots. Even elements added for aesthetics or branding can interfere with required camera sightlines.

Camera placement should be coordinated during architectural planning, not after construction. Ceiling heights, angles, and mounting locations all affect whether required areas can be monitored without gaps.

Inspectors assess whether cameras provide clear and continuous views of required areas. Temporary obstructions or assumptions about future adjustments are not acceptable. Visibility must be demonstrated at inspection.

Fixing visibility issues after construction often requires moving walls, displays, or camera infrastructure. These corrections can delay approval and increase build-out costs significantly.

Camera sightlines are not a technology problem. They are an architectural requirement. Designing with visibility in mind from the start reduces compliance risk and inspection friction.