A kinship foster home must have two remote exits on each level used to care for a kinship child. Each exit must provide unobstructed access to the outside. One exit must be a door or stairway that provides unobstructed access to the outside of the building at ground level. The other exit may be a window if:

1. (1) The window can be easily opened from the inside without the use of tools;
2. (2) The window provides a clear opening with a minimum dimension of at least twenty-two inches, is at least five square feet in area, and provides a safe means of escape; and

3. (3) Storm windows, screens, or burglar guards, if used, are provided with quick-opening devices that can be easily opened from the inside.

   A ladder, folding stairs, or a trap door may not be the only access to a bedroom.

Source: 51 SDR 127, effective June 1, 2025 .

General Authority: SDCL 26-6-16 .

Law Implemented: SDCL 26-6-16 .