Lockbox requirements
Due to a technical error, some orders from Knox may be delivered directly to your business instead of the Calgary Fire Department. If you receive your lockbox order, please email lockbox@calgary.ca with your business name and physical address as well as a primary contact phone number and email address. We will contact you to arrange installation.
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 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.
- Order a Knoxbox 3292 – Lift-Off Door, Supra Retrofit, Black, Part #: KLS-3292
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 retrofit lid free of charge during the transition period.
- 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 current codes 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 retrofit lid free of charge during the transition period.
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.
Where will the retrofit lids be delivered?
Once you place your order for the retrofit lockbox lid, it will be shipped directly to the Calgary Fire Department. We will then schedule the replacement at no additional cost. No action is required on your part and there is no need to contact a service provider.
Where will the lockbox assemblies be delivered for new construction, or buildings that require a lockbox but do not currently have one?
Lockbox assemblies will be shipped by Knox to the address identified in the “ship to” address on the order form. The owner or property manager will be responsible for the installation by a qualified contractor.
Which lockbox assembly do I require?
We recommend the recessed (inwall) KnoxBox 3200 as it is more secure than the surface-mounted version. It is physically integrated into the wall, which significantly reduces its exposure to attack and tampering.
Are there any approved contractors for the installation of a new lockbox assembly?
Owners may use any qualified contractor. A qualified contractor is a licensed, experienced professional—such as a general contractor, locksmith, maintenance technician, or security installer—who has been authorized by the property owner and is capable of installing a fire department–approved lockbox in accordance with manufacturer specifications and local fire and building codes.
What do I do once my new lockbox assembly is installed?
To schedule an appointment for inspection and lockup, call 311 or go to calgary.ca/311 select “311 Online Request” select “Request Service”, select service request type “Lockbox Inquiry” under “What is the lockbox concern?” select “New Lockbox” and submit the service request.
How do I request a key change?
To schedule an appointment to update keys, call 311 or go to calgary.ca/311 select “311 Online Request” select “Request Service”, select service request type “Lockbox Inquiry” under “What is the lockbox concern?” select “Key Change” and submit the service request.
What is the cost for a key change or to replace a key in the lockbox?
The cost for a fire inspector to attend the site, verify, and install the keys is $64.
Where is an acceptable location to install the lockbox?
The lockbox must be mounted in an approved location, typically at the principal entrance used by the public or near the fire alarm control panel. It should be installed between 4ft (1.2m) and 6ft (1.8m) above ground level to ensure accessibility. If you are unsure where the lockbox should be mounted, please reach out to the Calgary Fire Department.
Will I require additional lockbox inspections by a third-party service provider?
Bi-annual inspections are no longer required. The owner or property manager is responsible for ensuring that all keys stored in the lockbox are always present and fully functional. Failure to maintain proper keys in the lockbox may result in delayed access, increased property damage and additional response delays.
What keys are required in the lockbox?
The number and type of keys required in the lockbox shall be determined in accordance with the National Fire Code (Alberta Edition). Keys provided must allow immediate access to all Life Safety Systems, including:
- Main entrance key or fob
- Fire alarm systems
- Sprinkler systems
- Elevator systems
- Locked stairways
- Roof access
- Fire Safety Plan boxes
Keys that are not required include:
- Keys to individual suites (including apartments, condominiums, offices or storage units)
- Mechanical rooms (unless life safety equipment, including shutoffs, is located inside)
- Garbage rooms
- General-use rooms