Buying or Selling? Know the Rules.
What Legally Qualifies a Room as a Bedroom in Maryland?
- The Maryland Building Performance Standards (MBPS) are based on the International Residential
Code (IRC) and apply throughout the state.- Each bedroom must have a legal emergency escape and rescue opening (egress) that leads directly
outside. - Minimum Size: At least 70 square feet and 7 feet in any horizontal direction.
- Ceiling Height: Minimum of 7 feet for at least half of the room.
- Ventilation & Natural Light: Must have an operable window or mechanical ventilation and natural light
equal to 8% of the floor area. - Heat Source: Must include a built-in heating system (not space heaters).
- Privacy: Must have a door and be accessible from a common area (not through another bedroom).
- Closets are not legally required, although they may be expected for resale or appraisal purposes.
- Each bedroom must have a legal emergency escape and rescue opening (egress) that leads directly
General Egress Rules for Bedrooms in Maryland
- Every bedroom must have an emergency escape and rescue opening that leads directly outside.
- Egress must be accessible directly from within the bedroom.
- Acceptable options: egress window or an exterior door within the bedroom.
- A walkout basement door through a common area does not meet the requirement for a basement bedroom.
- Egress windows must meet the following minimums:
- Opening area: 5.7 sq ft (5.0 sq ft if at grade level)
- Opening height: 24 inches
- Opening width: 20 inches
- Sill height: No more than 44 inches above the floor
- Window wells are required if the egress window is below grade, and a ladder is needed if deeper than 44 inches.
