Egress window minimum: 5.7 sqft net clear opening, 24 inches clear height, 20 inches clear width
Virginia USBC 2021 Amendment 16 (IRC R310.2.1)Description
Emergency and escape rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet. The net clear height opening shall be not less than 24 inches, and the net clear width opening shall be not less than 20 inches. The net clear opening shall be measured from the floor when the window is in its fully open position.
Why this exists
Standard residential egress window dimensions. The 5.7 sqft figure accommodates a firefighter in full gear; the 20"×24" clear opening fits an adult passing through. Virginia adopts the IRC's figure without modification.
Measurements
| Property | Operator | Value | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
netClearArea | min | 5.7 | sqft | Net clear opening area of emergency escape window |
netClearHeight | min | 24 | in | Net clear height opening |
netClearWidth | min | 20 | in | Net clear width opening |
Categories
Applies to
- Room types: bedroom, master_bedroom
- Jurisdiction: Virginia
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Garage / dwelling fire separation · IRC R302.6
- Habitable space minimum ceiling height · IRC R305.1
- Egress window net opening dimensions · IRC R310.2
- Stair riser, tread, and headroom · IRC R311.7
- Smoke alarms required throughout dwelling · IRC R314
Last reviewed 2026-05-10.