Arson is the intentional burning of property—such as a building, car, boat, crops, or trees—with criminal or fraudulent intent. The criminal intent or motive behind arson is often insurance fraud—such as when the owner of property intentionally burns it and then files an insurance claim without disclosing the owner intentionally started the fire.

Arson is a felony offense under most state laws, but there are often different degrees of severity, depending on factors such as whether the fire results in physical injury or death. Arson is also a crime under federal law, which makes it illegal to use fire or an explosive to damage or destroy property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or in any activity affecting interstate or foreign commerce.

In Nevada, arson is considered a serious felony offense, and the state statutes categorize it into different degrees based on the severity of the act and its consequences. First-degree arson involves the willful and malicious setting of fire to an occupied dwelling or structure where people are normally present. Second-degree arson pertains to the burning of unoccupied structures, such as a vacant building. Third-degree arson includes the burning of personal property, such as a car or boat, while fourth-degree arson involves the burning of any property with intent to defraud, such as for insurance fraud. The penalties for arson in Nevada can be severe, including imprisonment and fines, and they escalate with the degree of arson charged. If the arson results in death or bodily harm, the offender may face even harsher consequences. Additionally, under federal law, arson is illegal when it involves property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or affects such commerce. This means that if the property burned has a connection to commercial activity across state lines or with other countries, federal charges could also apply.