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The Town of Frederick builds to the 2024 International Residential Code, adopted through Ordinance No. 1408 and in effect since March 1, 2026. That means a basement bedroom needs an egress window under Section R319: at least 5.7 sq ft of net clear opening, at least 24 in. high and 20 in. wide, with a sill no higher than 44 in. The window well must be at least 9 sq ft with 36 in. of projection, and it needs a ladder if it is deeper than 44 in.
The Town of Frederick builds to the 2024 International Residential Code, adopted through Ordinance No. 1408 and in effect since March 1, 2026. That means a basement bedroom needs an egress window under Section R319: at least 5.7 sq ft of net clear opening, at least 24 in. high and 20 in. wide, with a sill no higher than 44 in. The window well must be at least 9 sq ft with 36 in. of projection, and it needs a ladder if it is deeper than 44 in. We set up the project, and our local installer cuts the opening, sets the window and finishes the well. Check with the Town's Building Department before work starts.
Egress code in Frederick
Frederick builds to the 2024 IRC, so emergency escape and rescue openings fall under Section R319 (in the older 2021 code, the same rules sat in R310). Every basement bedroom needs one, and the rules are:
- Opening: at least 5.7 sq ft net clear
- Height and width: at least 24 in. high and 20 in. wide
- Sill: no higher than 44 in. above the floor
- Well: at least 9 sq ft of floor area with 36 in. of projection
- Ladder: required when the well is deeper than 44 in.
Frederick adopts the code with local amendments, so confirm any Town-specific rule with the Building Department before you buy a window. Want to test a window you already have? Run it through our free egress window check.
Permits in Frederick
Adding an egress window means cutting the foundation and changing an opening, so plan on a building permit. The Town takes building permit applications by email at building@frederickco.gov, and the permit technician answers general questions at 720-382-5516. Inspections are scheduled on the Town's inspection line. Fees come from the Town's own schedule, so ask the Building Department for the current amount. Our Denver metro permit guide and permit checklist walk through the plans most departments want.
Window wells and covers
The well is what makes the window usable. It holds the soil back and gives room to climb out. When the well is deeper than 44 in., a ladder or steps are part of the job. Any cover has to open from inside without a key or tool. See window well installation and window well covers.
What it costs
Price depends on the foundation, the depth, the window and the well. Our cost guide explains each driver, and the on-site quote is free.
Nearby. We also cover Erie, Longmont, Lafayette, Broomfield and Brighton.
Codes and permit steps change, so check with your building department before work starts.
Services in Frederick
Egress windows · Window wells · Covers · Basement egress
Ready to add egress to your Frederick basement?
Planning a basement bedroom in Frederick? We set up the project, and our local installer does the work.
Frequently asked questions
What code does Frederick use for egress windows?
The 2024 International Residential Code, adopted through Ordinance No. 1408 and in effect since March 1, 2026. Egress rules are in Section R319.
How big does an egress window need to be in Frederick?
At least 5.7 sq ft net clear, 24 in. high and 20 in. wide, with a sill no higher than 44 in. Try our egress window check.
Do I need a permit?
Plan on one, because the work cuts the foundation and changes an opening. Email building@frederickco.gov or call 720-382-5516 to confirm.
Does the window well need a ladder?
Yes, when the well is deeper than 44 in. The well itself needs at least 9 sq ft of floor area with 36 in. of projection.
How much does an egress window cost in Frederick?
It depends on the wall, the window and the well. Our cost guide explains what drives the price, and the quote is free.