In Colorado, egress windows are a mandatory requirement for any habitable basement bedroom. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), which Colorado has adopted, every sleeping room must provide an emergency escape and rescue opening directly to the outside.

Key requirements for a compliant egress window include:

• Minimum Opening Size: For basement egress windows, the net clear opening must be at least 5.0 square feet.
• Dimension Requirements: The opening must have a minimum width of 20 inches and a minimum height of 24 inches.
• Sill Height: The bottom of the window (sill) cannot be more than 44 inches above the floor.
• Escape Route: The window must lead to a window well that is at least 3 feet deep and equipped with a permanent step or ladder to allow occupants to climb out and first responders to enter.

Installing these windows is not only a safety measure for life-saving situations but also a legal requirement for a basement room to be classified as a bedroom on a home appraisal. Local jurisdictions like Denver and Colorado Springs may have even stricter local amendments, so it is recommended to verify specific rules with your local building department.