Does a basement or basement bedroom need an egress window?

Yes — basements with habitable space and every sleeping room must have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening (IRC R310.1).

Every sleeping room (bedroom) and basements with habitable space must have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening that reaches the outside directly. Where a basement contains sleeping rooms, the opening is required in each sleeping room.

The opening has to work from the inside without keys, tools, or special knowledge.

Limited exceptions exist — for example, a basement used only to house mechanical equipment and not exceeding 200 square feet. A finished or occupied basement generally triggers the requirement, so confirm against R310.1 and any local amendments.