diff --git a/src/aare/daq/server.py b/src/aare/daq/server.py
index 60b293af..13dbb7c5 100644
--- a/src/aare/daq/server.py
+++ b/src/aare/daq/server.py
@@ -1723,7 +1723,6 @@ async def set_smart_params(p: SimpleScanParameters, token: str = Depends(oauth2_
 
 
 @app.post("/scan/cancel")
-@needs_hw_lock
 async def cancel(token: str = Depends(oauth2_scheme)):
     """
     Cancel the currently running scan or automation.