Opinion: Basement Egress Windows

Inquiry:

96-03

Subject:

Basement Egress Windows

Code:

Code: 1994 UBC Section 310.4

Submitted By:

MN B. O. Uniformity Committee

Approved By:

Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official

Issue Date:

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

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?

Committee comments:

The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.

Answer #2

No. The building code does not address this particular situation. (however, see 509.1 for ramps)

Committee comments:

Adopted by committee November 8, 1995 and approved (with deletion) at the 40th Annual Institute of Building Officials on January 12, 1996.