Unless you go to a super professional locksmith shop nobody cares. I have had these kinds of keys copied multiple times and prepared an elaborate backstory about being sent by my boss and they didn't even ask either time. They didn't even look or notice.
If they do ask and you don't want to lie just go to the next hardware store over. They can't keep your keys or hold you or anything for trying to get a key made, at worst they will say no.
With a small metal file and a stack of key blanks, you could make your own copies of whatever you want.
I should add not ANY key you want. Higher security locks are going to require cuts that you may not be able to do with a generic key blank, but those are more likely to be found on corporate doors, than cheap "landlord special" locks.
I'd just try and get it copied. As long as you don't act like you're up to something weird, I'd doubt anybody'd question it. I've had friends get such keys copied for similar reasons and had no troubles. It's not like they know what the keys are for.
minute key? there's one in most walmarts i've been to
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=L5Fus7qbRZM
The Replicant lets you imprint a key in clay, and then later cast a copy. The risk is that it breaks off in the lock and you have to fish it out or be prepared to explain that you were not authorized.
https://covertinstruments.com/products/replicant
$70 USD but maybe you could sell it when you're done?
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