The acts of breaking and entering a building were historically part of the definition of the crime of burglary. But most states have since broadened the definition of burglary to include any entry into a building without the permission of the owner and with the intent to commit a theft, assault, or other crime inside the building. But a few states still have a distinct criminal offense of breaking and entering a building.

And some states have a similar criminal offense of forcible and unlawful entry that make it a crime to force entry into an automobile, safe, ATM, parking meter, or vending machine.

Breaking and entering laws (and related property crime laws) are usually located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes).

In Idaho, burglary is defined under Idaho Code § 18-1401. The state's definition of burglary has indeed been broadened from the historical concept of 'breaking and entering.' In Idaho, a person commits burglary when they enter any building, structure, or any part thereof, with the intent to commit any theft or felony, regardless of the time of day. The entry does not need to involve force or breaking; even entering through an unlocked door with criminal intent can constitute burglary. Additionally, Idaho law also addresses crimes similar to breaking and entering, such as unlawful entry, under Idaho Code § 18-7011, which makes it a misdemeanor to enter or remain in a building or property without the owner's consent. While Idaho does not have a distinct offense called 'breaking and entering,' its burglary and unlawful entry statutes cover the essence of what breaking and entering laws typically address, including the unauthorized entry into vehicles, safes, and similar containers when intended to commit theft or other crimes.