North Dakota Egress Window Code Requirements
North Dakota builds to the International Residential Code (IRC). Here's what the egress rules actually require for a basement in the Bismarck-Mandan area — and where homeowners most often get tripped up.
The core requirement (IRC R310)
Basements and every sleeping room must have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening with a net clear opening of at least 5.7 square feet. The opening must be at least 24 inches high and 20 inches wide, and the sill can be no more than 44 inches above the finished floor. A finished basement needs an egress window in each bedroom; if there are no bedrooms, at least one egress opening is still required.
Window well rules
Where the window is below grade, a window well is required. The well must provide a minimum horizontal area of 9 square feet, with a minimum projection and width of 36 inches, and must let the window fully open. Wells deeper than 44 inches must have a permanently affixed ladder or steps, and must drain to the foundation's drainage system.
Main-floor sleeping rooms
Egress is still required in every sleeping room on the main floor, though the net clear opening can be reduced to 5 square feet.
Permits and inspection
TODO (copy pass): summarize the local permit/inspection process for the City of Bismarck and Morton County, and link to the permit page. Always verify current requirements with your local building inspector before starting.
This is a general summary for the Bismarck-Mandan area, not legal or code advice. Codes are adopted and amended locally — confirm current requirements with your jurisdiction's building inspector before you build.