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Is Your Knox Box Officially Approved by SMFD?

Post Date:04/15/2026

A Knox Box is a secure, wall-mounted key safe that provides first responders with immediate access to your property during an emergency—without the need for forced entry. This rapid access can save critical time and help prevent unnecessary property damage.

In Southern Marin, Knox Boxes are required for commercial buildings, multi-family residences, gated properties, and facilities with restricted access or fire protection systems. They ensure firefighters can quickly and safely enter when every second counts.

To ensure your Knox Box is officially approved by the Southern Marin Fire District (SMFD), it must be purchased through the authorized Knox Company portal linked on the SMFD website. Only boxes ordered through this channel are keyed to SMFD’s master system and meet local requirements. Fire department boxes not made by Knox Box should be removed as they may pose a security threat.

Installing an approved Knox Box is a simple, but essential step in protecting your property and supporting emergency response when it matters most.

For more information on how to purchase a Knox Box visit website.

 

Section 506.1 Key Entry Systems. When access to or within a structure or an area is unduly difficult because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for lifesaving or firefighting purposes or in commercial structures that have an automatic fire sprinkler or fire alarm system installed, the Fire Code Official is authorized to require a key entry system to be installed in an approved location. The key entry system shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL1037, and if it is a box shall contain keys necessary to gain access as required by the Fire Code Official. 

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