Fire Prevention

The East Dundee Fire District has adopted the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC). Under IFC 506.1, when access to or within a structure is restricted by secured openings—or when immediate access is necessary for life safety or firefighting—the fire code official is authorized to require a key box in an approved location. The key box must be an approved type listed to UL 1037 and contain the keys needed for fire department access as required by the fire code official.

Who Must Install (Mandatory):
Per the EDFD Fire Code, the owner of any building or structure that is nota single-family or two-family dwelling and that is protected by an automatic sprinkler system, or an automatic fire detection system, shall purchase, install, and maintain a Knox Box® brand key access system.

Where Required (Discretionary Authority):
Even if the above conditions don’t apply, the fire code official may still require a key box wherever secured openings restrict access or immediate access is necessary for emergency operations.

Approved Product:
Knox Box® (listed to UL 1037).
Commercial/Industrial models: https://www.knoxbox.com/Products/Commercial-KnoxBoxes

How To Purchase (Commercial/Industrial):

1. Go to the link above.
2. Select Illinois.
3. Enter East Dundee & Countryside FPD, click Search.
4. Choose Commercial Knox Boxes, select your model, and complete the purchase.

Contents:

• Install at the EDFD-approved location.
• Contents: main entrance/master keys, fire alarm panel key, sprinkler/risers      & mechanical/electrical rooms, elevator/equipment rooms, and any access cards/fobs required by EDFD.
• After installation, contact the EDFD Fire Prevention Bureau to secure the keys in the box.

Owner Responsibilities:

• Maintain the box and ensure it’s accessible and visible at all times.
• Update keys immediately after any rekeying or access control changes.
• Keep the area around the box clear of obstructions.

For approvals, location guidance, or to schedule keying, contact the EDFD Fire Prevention Bureau.

To help us reach you quickly in an emergency, EDFD offers residential Knox Boxes—secure key safes that let first responders access your home without forcing entry.

Who’s Eligible (No-Cost Program Access): 

Residents of the Fire District who have a medical or physical condition that could prevent them from answering the door during an emergency (e.g., limited mobility, recent surgery, significant illness, or similar conditions).

Want a Knox Box But Don’t Meet Medical Eligibility?

Residents without a qualifying condition may still obtain a Knox Box by purchasing one themselves. EDFD will install it and secure your house keys inside for emergency access.

How To Purchase (For Self-Pay Residents):

1. Visit: https://www.knoxbox.com/Products/Residential-KnoxBoxes
2. Choose Illinois as the state.
3. Enter East Dundee & Countryside FPD as the department, then click Search.
4. Select Residential Boxes and complete your purchase.

How It Works:

1. EDFD confirms eligibility or guides you through purchasing the appropriate box.
2. EDFD installs the box at your residence in an approved location.
3. Your house key is secured inside; only authorized emergency personnel can open the box.

For details, eligibility confirmation, or to schedule installation, contact the EDFD Fire Prevention Bureau.