Okla. Stat. tit. 74, §§ 324.11a–324.11c § 324.11c
Bars, Grills, Covers, Screens, etc., Placed Over Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings
Operative Text
Any residential occupancy built or retrofitted after November 1, 2005, that have installed bars, grills, covers, screens, or similar devices that are placed over emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures, windows, or window wells, shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool, or force greater than that which is required for normal operation of the escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures, windows, or window wells.
Under 74 O.S. § 324.11c, any residential building constructed or retrofitted after November 1, 2005, that installs bars, grills, covers, screens, or similar devices over emergency escape and rescue openings must ensure those devices can be released or removed from the inside without a key, tool, or unusual force. The rule is designed so that occupants can exit quickly in an emergency without being trapped by security hardware. It applies to windows, window wells, bulkhead enclosures, and other designated escape openings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers overseeing residential buildings constructed or retrofitted after November 1, 2005 should verify that any bars, grills, covers, or screens installed over emergency escape openings comply with 74 O.S. § 324.11c. Compliant operators typically confirm that all such devices are equipped with interior quick-release mechanisms that require no key, tool, or excessive force to operate. Routine inspections of these release mechanisms help ensure they remain functional and meet the standard at all times.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under 74 O.S. § 324.11c, tenants living in qualifying residential buildings have a right to emergency escape openings that are not blocked by bars, grills, or similar devices unless those devices can be released from the inside without a key, tool, or unusual force. If a tenant believes security hardware on windows or escape openings does not meet this standard, they may report the concern to the local building or fire code enforcement authority. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand how this provision applies to their building and what complaint options may be available.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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