Egress windows in Calgary
The City's size rules in plain words, and what one costs.
The size rules
For every bedroom, unless the suite has sprinklers.
Source: City of Calgary, Egress Window Guidelines.
More City rules
Opens from inside
With no keys, tools or special knowledge, and it stays open on its own.
Window types
Casement, sliders and tilt-and-turn work. Hopper and fixed picture windows do not. Awning windows only with conditions.
Covers and bars
A cover, grate or security bars on a bedroom window need the City’s approval, case by case.
Under a deck
It needs 2.1 m of headroom, or 760 mm when the window sits right at the deck’s edge.
Source: City of Calgary, Egress Window Guidelines.
What one costs
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Cut, window and well
$2,500 to $5,000
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Full range seen
$1,500 to $7,500
9 Calgary sources, Oct 2026. Not our prices.
What we do
- Egress windows cut and installedbrother to confirm
Questions
What size must an egress window be?
It must open to at least 0.35 m² (3.77 sq ft), with no side under 380 mm (15 in), without removing any part of the window. In a window well, keep 760 mm clear in front of it (City of Calgary).
Do I need a permit to cut one?
Yes. The City asks for a building permit for new or moved windows in exterior walls. The inspector checks the opening against the approved drawings.
Does every basement need one?
The rule is for bedrooms: each bedroom needs an egress window or door that opens to the outside, unless the suite has sprinklers (City of Calgary).
Get a quote
Name and phone, that's all.
Building a suite? Legal suite requirements
Finishing a basement? Basement development