Lockbox requirements
A lockbox provides emergency responders quick access to a building. They must contain all keys or devices required to access the building and the Fire/Life safety systems.
All keys and devices must be attached to a key ring and their use indicated by an attached tag.
Lockboxes must be installed on the exterior wall of the building near the principal entrance.
All buildings that require a lockbox must install a Knox lockbox or retro-fit an existing Supra lockbox with a Knox lid.
This City of Calgary-approved box provides increased security and other benefits.
For more information about our lockbox program, please call 311 or 403-268-2489 if calling from outside Calgary.
A lockbox needs to be installed on a building with any of the following:
- A fire alarm system where:
- It's control features, including emergency voice communication systems, are located behind a locked pane.
- Manually operated devices require a key or device to be reset.
- The electrical circuit breaker is located within a locked panel or room.
- An automatic sprinkler system where the main control valve is locked in the open position or if it's located within a locked room or enclosure.
- Standpipe and water supply connections are in a locked room or area such as a roof
- A key operated elevator control feature that permits exclusive use of elevators to fire fighting personnel or that will switch selected elevators to operate on emergency power.
- Stairway doors that have been locked on the stairway side.
- Roof access doors that are locked.
Changes required for lockbox lids
Honeywell has discontinued the TRACcess (Supra) lockbox product line and all support for these products will end by December 31, 2026. To maintain compliance with Calgary Fire Department[RH1] standards and ensure reliable emergency access, all lockboxes must be retro-fitted with a Knox Retro lid.
- Supra lockboxes can only remain in service if retrofitted with the approved Knox Lift-Off Retro Lid.
- Building owners are responsible for ordering Knox retrofit lids before October 30, 2026. The Calgary Fire Department will install the Knox Retro fit lids at no cost.
- After December 31, 2026, non-compliant lockboxes may result in delayed fire response and enforcement actions.
Action required
Order Knox retrofit lids on the website or by scanning the QR code:
Deadline and cost
Orders must be placed by October 30,2026 and lockboxes must be installed by December 31, 2026.
- The Calgary Fire Department will install the lockboxes free of charge
- Bi-annual lockbox inspections are no longer required
- Existing service contracts with lockbox companies will not be renewed in 2026.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I need to replace my Knox lockbox lid?
To maintain compliance with updated security standards and ensure emergency responder access.
What is the deadline for replacement?
All lids must be replaced by December 31, 2026.
How do I order a replacement lid?
Order directly from Knox. Visit their website or scan the QR code.
Who is responsible for ordering and installing the lid?
Property owners/managers are responsible for ordering the Knox retrofit lid. The Calgary Fire Department will install the lockboxes and/or lids free of charge.
What happens if I do not replace the lid by the deadline?
Non-compliance may result in inspection notices and enforcement actions.
Where can I find more information?
Email lockbox@calgary.ca or call 311 for more details
Are there any approved vendors for the installation of a new Lockbox? (new construction or project that does not currently have a Supra Vault)
Owners may use any qualified contractor; Knox provides installation guidelines.