Nevada CCB Finalizes Consumption Lounge Regulations Including Mandatory HVAC Standards and 500-Foot Buffer from Schools (July 2025)

Background

Nevada AB 341 (2021) authorized cannabis consumption lounges as a licensed facility type, but rulemaking was delayed pending HVAC industry consultation. The CCB adopted final regulations at its July 15, 2025 regular meeting under NAC Chapter 678D.

Key Final Regulation Provisions

Ventilation Requirements (NAC 678D.320)

• Air changes per hour (ACH): Minimum 12 ACH in all consumer-accessible areas
• HEPA filtration: Required on all return-air systems
• Negative pressure: Consumption areas must be maintained at negative pressure relative to adjacent non-cannabis spaces
• Engineering certification: Initial HVAC design must be certified by a licensed Nevada mechanical engineer; annual re-certification required

Siting Requirements (NAC 678D.310)

• 500-foot buffer from any K-12 public or private school measured from property line to property line
• 500-foot buffer from any public park designated for youth recreation under local ordinance
• 300-foot buffer from any licensed child-care facility

Occupancy and Operational Limits (NAC 678D.330)

• Maximum occupancy = [ventilation ACH × space volume (cubic feet)] ÷ 180
• Maximum session duration: 4 hours per patron per day
• Cannabis products must be purchased on-site from the associated retail licensee; outside cannabis is prohibited
• Alcohol prohibition: No alcohol may be served or consumed in any area accessible to cannabis consumption lounge patrons

Existing Provisional Lounge Licensees

Licensees operating under provisional lounge approval must comply with the final HVAC requirements by January 15, 2026, and with all other requirements immediately.

Strategic Note

The 500-foot school buffer will effectively exclude consumption lounges from many urban locations. Operators should obtain a certified buffer measurement before executing long-term leases.