CURE8 BLOG

Guide To Cannabis Surveillance Cameras

Business

The regulations governing the cannabis industry are ever-evolving and growing along with it. Installing a robust video surveillance system is an important aspect of compliance for multi-state cannabis businesses. This is important for protecting your business, its staff, and vital assets. It also helps to guarantee that local and state laws are complied with. In this post, we’ll walk you through choosing the right surveillance camera for your cannabis business, types, specifications and top brands you can choose from.

How To Choose The Best Surveillance Cameras For Your Cannabis Business?

Understanding State Regulatory Requirements

Understanding the regulatory and legal framework in each state or county where your cannabis business is located is important before diving into the specifics of video surveillance systems. The position of the camera, the duration of the recording, the quality of the image, and the storage capability are all subject to state and municipal regulations. Selecting a system that meets all compliance requirements requires familiarity with these regulations.

High-Quality Video Resolution Is Important

High-definition video footage is important to identify people, activities, and potential security risks. Look for surveillance cameras with a minimum resolution of 1080p, while considering higher resolutions for monitoring from a distance or important locations.

Comprehensive Coverage Is A Must

You should have adequate coverage for each element of your cannabis business, from production facilities to retail outlets. Identify high-priority zones, such as access points, storage spaces, and transaction points, that need extra attention through an in-depth assessment.

Scalability and Flexibility

A surveillance system that can scale with the business is essential if you run a multi-state cannabis company. Make sure that as you launch new locations, the system can easily scale. Furthermore, think about how well the system integrates with other security technology, such as alarm systems or access control.

Remote Monitoring and Data Accessibility

For managers and business owners, being able to remotely monitor your cannabis operation is valuable. Look for remote access to video surveillance systems through a secure internet connection. This gives you peace of mind and the opportunity to quickly address any challenges by keeping an eye on your facilities from anywhere.

Storage and Retention

Storage durations for video footage are often governed by compliance regulations. Make sure the solution you’ve chosen supports these needs in terms of storage. Think about storing video in the cloud, on-site, or using a hybrid strategy.

Support and Maintenance

Choose a reliable vendor or service provider who has a proven track record of offering exceptional maintenance and customer support. A reputable partner will guide you through any technical challenges, offer you regular system updates, and help you comply with evolving legislation.

Top Brands

SecurityCameraKing.com
Cannaspire (CannaBeSecure)
Bay Alarm
March Networks
Umbrella Technologies

Types Of Cannabis Surveillance Cameras

There are many types of cannabis surveillance cameras. While some differences are based on individual preferences, while others determine the features that your camera can provide.

The resolution of the camera is important. The quality you require will be somewhat determined by laws and regulations, but consider purchasing cameras with even higher image quality. You should aim for full HD (1080p) for security reasons; otherwise, you won’t be able to see specific details like faces and license plates. It’s best to get 2K (“Quad”) or 4K (“Ultra”). Greater resolutions need a greater volume of data to be stored.

The field of view is an additional factor. This is a reference to the field of view of the camera. A broader viewing angle can help you cover more ground and possibly use fewer cameras overall. Assuming that the resolution is enough to provide adequate details.

You have a few options for physical hardware that you can choose from. Do you prefer a wireless or wired connection? A hardwired PoE camera system offers superior power and data stability, especially for large sites, while wireless security cameras are more adaptable and easier to install. Additionally, there are many camera shapes to select from. The most popular, dome and bullet, should be suitable for several applications.

Choosing between monitored and unmonitored cameras may be the most critical decision you make. Live professional monitoring can guarantee that the local police are notified as soon as possible for a small additional fee. It’s less expensive to self-monitor your system, but then you (or a security team) have to keep an eye on feeds and respond to incidents. Local laws might need to be followed by professionals.

Typical Specifications Of Cannabis Surveillance Cameras

High-resolution – The highest quality video resolution should be chosen by dispensaries. Although some states may mandate IP cameras to have a minimum resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels, a 1-megapixel camera may suffice; however, it’s advisable to aim higher.
Camera placement must allow clear and certain identification of any individual on the premises – The higher the resolution the better for all areas of the premises especially entrances and exits.
All fencing and gates enclosing an outdoor grow operation must have full video surveillance capable of clearly identifying any activities occurring within twenty feet of the exterior of the perimeter.
Every entry and exit, both inside and outside, into an indoor facility must be recorded.
Cameras must be installed at locations where marijuana is grown, cured, or processed, including waste disposal areas.
All point-of-sale (POS) areas must have a camera.
Any room or area storing a surveillance system storage device (NVR or DVR) – So the room you have your recording equipment stored in will need to have a camera as well.
All cameras must record 24/7 and a minimum of 10 frames per second.
The surveillance footage must be kept for a minimum of 45 days. However, this regulation can vary from state to state.
The time and date must be displayed on all recordings