Egress Windows in Erie, CO: Town Permits & Rapid Review

Last updated October 25, 2026

Erie requires a permit even for like-for-like window replacement, and every sleeping room in a finished basement needs an escape window.

Erie permits go through the Town of Erie Building Division (Does my project require a permit?).

Erie's rules

• Erie's permit list includes "Window addition or modification", "Structural modifications", "Basement finishes", and even "Like-for-like window replacement" (page above).
• Erie's basement finish checklist requires:
  • an escape window in each sleeping room, plus at least one escape opening in the finished area even without a bedroom
  • an engineered plan for structural modifications, including adding windows
  • a separate fee for a "New window or door"
• Erie's sleeping-room amendment: a room with a closet, or space "easily converted to a closet", counts as a sleeping room and needs an escape opening. The alternative is permanent floor-to-ceiling shelving with no clothes rod (checklist).

Rapid Review

On Wednesdays, Erie plan reviewers take simple residential projects, including basement finishes, as Rapid Review. They accept 2 per week, and submittals are due by 4 p.m. Monday. Homes with fire sprinklers need Mountain View Fire review and don't qualify. Contractors need a current Town of Erie license and a certificate of insurance on file (Building Permit Information).

Fees: how Erie calculates them

The fee for a standalone egress window is set from the project valuation via the Town Fee Schedule. Fees and taxes are set by the jurisdiction; see the official 2026 valuation memo for current amounts.

Erie FAQ

• My basement office has a closet. Does it need an egress window? Under Erie's amendment, yes, unless the closet is converted to permanent shelving (checklist).

Services

Egress windows · Window wells · Covers · Basement egress · Code guide