Opinion: Basement egress windows

Inquiry:	98-48c (formally 96-3)
Subject:	Basement egress windows
Code:	1996 MSBC 1994 UBC
Submitted By:	MN B.O. Uniformity Committee
Approved By:	Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official
Issue Date:	August 3, 1998 (previously July 22, 1996)
Question #1:	If I finish my basement into more usable living space, must I install an egress window even though the space does not include a bedroom?
Answer #1:	No.  The committee interprets that this would only apply to new construction or additions to existing basements.
Committee comments:	The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.
Question #2:	Is a guardrail required on the top of egress window wells that are adjacent to walkways not used as required exits?
Answer #2:	No.  The building code does not address this particular situation.  (however, see 509.1 for ramps)
Division comments:	Adopted by committee September 25, 1996 and ratified at the 41st Annual Institute of Building Officials on January 17, 1997

• Building code
• Accessibility
• Mechanical
• Energy
• Elevator
• Existing buildings
• Manufactured structures

• Item 1b
• Item 2b

• Item 1c
• Item 2c
• Item 3c
• Item 4c
• Item 5c