Weston trustees approve change to fire code over Knox Box wording after heated debate

The Village of Weston Board of Trustees voted to adopt Ordinance 25‑003, an amendment to the village municipal code’s fire‑prevention chapter that clarifies when Knox Boxes and door‑numbering requirements apply. The change, approved by voice vote, was the most contentious item on the agenda and drew prolonged discussion from trustees, staff and local business representatives.

Supporters and staff said the ordinance trims ambiguous language that had led to inconsistent enforcement. "What we're setting is the minimum standard," a staff presenter said during debate, arguing the amendment removes language that allowed inspectors to require Knox Boxes in situations the state code does not mandate.

Opponents—including some business owners and a committee member who recorded a dissent at the committee level—raised concerns about property damage and the downstream cost implications for small businesses. "If we damage a door, which inevitably we will, then those property owners are gonna expect us to pay for it," a fire‑department representative warned, recounting a prior incident in which a recovery for a door repair was sought.

Trustees also debated whether the ordinance language matched the recommended phrasing used by Knox, the national product and standard referenced in many municipal codes. Staff said the phrasing in the ordinance reflects nationally recommended terminology and that, in practice, inspectors retain discretion where access is genuinely difficult because of security measures.

After the discussion the board approved Ordinance 25‑003. The roll call showed six trustees in favor and one against; Trustee Cronin cast the lone negative vote and asked that his opposition be noted on the record.

The ordinance change is intended to reduce ambiguous local interpretations that, officials said, had in some cases led to inspectors requiring Knox Boxes in buildings that lacked state code triggers such as elevators, fire‑suppression systems or 24‑hour occupancy. Village staff said they will monitor implementation and reconcile any questions about enforcement or property repair responsibilities with the village attorney and building officials before broader application.

The board will publish the ordinance amendment and any administrative guidance for staff and property owners ahead of enforcement.