What is the minimum size for an egress window in NJ?

The minimum net clear opening size for an egress window in New Jersey is 5.7 square feet. This must be achieved in the open position of the window with a minimum net clear height of 24 inches and a minimum net clear width of 20 inches. The sill of the window may not be more than 44 inches above the finished floor.

Net clear opening means the area of the actual opening through which a person can pass, not the overall window rough opening or frame size. Window grilles, security bars, or interior screens that cannot be opened reduce the net clear area and can cause a window to fail the egress measurement.

In practice, a window that meets all three measurements, 5.7 square feet area, 24 inches high, and 20 inches wide, will typically be at least a 30-by-34-inch operable unit or larger. Scaldino Basement Solutions selects and installs window units that meet the NJ net clear opening standard. Contact us to assess your basement window situation.