Do basement bedrooms need egress windows in Ottawa?

Yes, basement bedrooms in Ottawa absolutely require egress windows to meet Ontario Building Code requirements and obtain proper permits from the City of Ottawa.

Under the Ontario Building Code (OBC), any room used for sleeping must have a window or door that opens directly to the outside and meets specific size requirements for emergency escape. This applies to all basement bedrooms in Ottawa, whether you're finishing an existing basement or creating a secondary dwelling unit.

Ottawa's Egress Window Requirements

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) enforces these specific egress requirements for basement bedrooms:

Window Size Requirements:

• Minimum opening width: 15 inches (380mm)


• Minimum opening height: 24 inches (610mm)


• Minimum net clear opening: 3.3 square feet (0.35 square meters)


• Maximum sill height: 60 inches (1.5m) above floor

Window Well Requirements:

• Minimum width: 36 inches extending at least 8 inches beyond window opening on each side


• Minimum projection: 24 inches from foundation wall


• Proper drainage system required


• Steps or ladder required if well depth exceeds 24 inches

Ottawa Permit Process for Basement Bedrooms

When applying for a basement renovation permit through ottawa.ca/building, the City will specifically review your egress window plans. Typical costs for basement renovation permits in Ottawa range from $300-800 depending on scope, with processing times of 15-25 business days.

The permit application must include detailed drawings showing window dimensions, window well construction, and drainage plans. Many Ottawa homeowners discover during the permit process that their existing basement windows don't meet egress requirements, requiring costly window enlargement or replacement.

What to Watch For When Hiring Contractors

Be extremely cautious of any contractor who suggests skipping permits for basement bedrooms or claims egress windows aren't necessary in Ottawa. This is a major red flag. Unpermitted basement bedrooms can:

• Fail home inspections during sale


• Void insurance coverage in emergencies


• Result in City of Ottawa compliance orders


• Create serious safety hazards for occupants

Always verify your contractor understands OBC egress requirements and has experience with City of Ottawa basement permits. Check their ESA license at esasafe.com/contractor-locator if electrical work is involved.

Official Resources

Contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building for specific guidance on your basement bedroom project. They can clarify requirements for your particular situation and provide current permit fee schedules.

For secondary dwelling units in basements, additional zoning and parking requirements may apply depending on your Ottawa neighborhood (Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, etc.). The City's Building Code Services can explain these requirements during your pre-consultation.