R310.2.4

Section R310.2.4 is titled 'Emergency escape and rescue openings under decks and porches' and covers the requirements for the construction of decks and/or porches over emergency escape and rescue openings. The open-ability of the emergency escape and rescue opening and a minimum clear height below the deck or porch which leads to a yard or court is established. The purpose of this section is to assure emergency escape and rescue openings are usable, yet allowing for use of adjacent space around the dwelling.

The model shows a below grade emergency escape and rescue opening with a window well and a deck being built above it. The bottom of the beam is highlighted to show where the 36" vertical measurement from grade must be made to.