What is the maximum distance to an egress window from any point in a basement bedroom?

In Ontario, every point in a basement bedroom must be within 15 meters (approximately 49 feet) of an egress window or door, as specified by the Ontario Building Code.

This 15-meter travel distance requirement ensures occupants can quickly reach a safe exit in case of emergency. The measurement follows the actual path someone would walk - not a straight line through walls - from any point in the bedroom to the nearest egress opening. This means if your basement bedroom has an L-shape or obstacles, you need to measure around them to ensure compliance.

Egress window requirements go beyond just distance. In Ottawa basements, the window must have a minimum opening width of 380mm (15 inches), minimum opening height of 380mm, and minimum net clear opening of 0.35 square meters (3.77 square feet). The window sill can't be more than 1.5 meters (5 feet) above the bedroom floor, and if it opens into a window well, that well needs specific dimensions for safe egress.

Ottawa's clay soil and 4-foot frost line create unique challenges for egress window installation. Most basement bedrooms require window well excavation and proper drainage systems to prevent water infiltration. The window well must extend at least 150mm beyond the window frame on each side and provide adequate drainage to prevent flooding during Ottawa's spring melt and summer storms.

Professional installation is crucial because egress windows involve structural modifications, waterproofing, and electrical work (if adding lighting to the well). The City of Ottawa requires building permits for egress window installations, and the work must pass inspections to ensure proper emergency egress and weather protection. ESA permits are needed if electrical work is involved.

If your basement bedroom doesn't meet the 15-meter requirement, you'll need to add an egress window or reconfigure the space. For a free assessment of your basement bedroom's egress compliance and installation options, contact Ottawa Basements - we handle the permits, excavation, and waterproofing to ensure your basement bedroom meets all Ontario Building Code requirements.