When a cannabis distribution establishment in Las Vegas is selected for inspection, state regulators conduct a comprehensive review to ensure compliance with regulations governing public safety, inventory tracking, security, record-keeping, and licensing. These inspections, whether routine or complaint-driven, involve tangible and procedural facets that maintain rigorous industry integrity.
Risk & Timing of the Inspection
Cannabis distribution facilities in Nevada typically undergo annual on-site inspections, and may also face unannounced visits triggered by complaints or suspicious activity. Embedded in state law, regulators like the Cannabis Compliance Board may enter premises at any time to audit operations.
Documentation & Seed-to-Sale Tracking
Inspectors begin by reviewing meticulous records maintained in METRC—Nevada’s state-approved seed-to-sale tracking platform—which logs every transfer, batch, and sale. Regulators demand inventory reports, quarterly physical reconciliations, transfer manifests, COAs (Certificates of Analysis), and METRC tags to ensure traceability and validity of product batches. Missing COAs or discrepancies in METRC lead to product quarantines or fines.
Security, Packaging & Labeling
Every aspect of security is scrutinized: cameras must cover all vital areas, possess uninterrupted recording capabilities, contain failure alarms, and have stored footage with timestamps for at least 90 days (or more, per local ordinance). Packaging is reviewed to ensure safety compliance—especially that products don’t appeal to minors or use unauthorized descriptors. Improper packaging or unacceptable labels can result in embargoes and mandatory revisions.
Physical Premises & Operational Protocols
Inspectors walk through the full premises, from loading docks to storage areas, checking for unauthorized access, adequate clean rooms, secure storage, and compliance with zoning and building codes. Interior protocols like facility sanitation, employee hygiene, equipment maintenance, and pest-control evidence are reviewed.
Chain of Custody and Delivery Procedures
Distribution inspections examine the chain of custody closely. Every transfer—from cultivator to processor, to distributor to retail—must be documented in METRC and accompanied by transfer manifests, vehicle logs, temperature control validations, shipment records, and secure delivery protocols. Vehicles used must be certified, unmarked, and equipped to safely maintain product integrity, with observable tracking of stops and security measures during transit.
Corrective Actions & Enforcement
If discrepancies are detected—such as hidden product, untagged batches, COA omissions, packaging errors, or security lapses—inspectors issue warnings or notices to comply. In severe cases, like unregistered or concealed cannabis discovered during prior audits, establishments may face license suspension until violations are resolved.
Follow-Up & Reporting
Following inspection, detailed audit reports are issued. Establishments must submit either a corrective action plan or evidence of compliance. The Cannabis Compliance Board may repeat inspections or require third-party verification. Serious or repeated violations can result in fines, referral to law enforcement, or license revocation.
In Review
A cannabis distribution inspection in Las Vegas involves intense scrutiny of operational, security, packaging, and inventory control systems. Facilities must stay audit-ready at all times, adhere strictly to METRC, ensure packaging integrity, maintain bulletproof security, and document lawful transport. Errors not only risk penalties but can endanger consumer trust and the legitimacy of Nevada’s cannabis supply chain.