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 South Carolina, burglary is defined under South Carolina Code of Laws Section 16-11-310 et seq. The state has broadened the traditional definition of burglary to include entering a building without consent and with the intent to commit a crime therein. South Carolina law distinguishes between first, second, and third-degree burglary based on factors such as the type of building entered, the time of the offense, whether the entry was violent, and the offender's prior record. First-degree burglary is the most serious form, typically involving dwellings and carrying the harshest penalties. Additionally, South Carolina recognizes the crime of 'breaking into motor vehicles' under Section 16-13-160, which makes it illegal to enter a vehicle without consent with the intent to steal the vehicle or anything inside. While the state does not have a distinct offense named 'breaking and entering,' the aforementioned statutes cover similar conduct by criminalizing unauthorized entry into various types of property with the intent to commit a crime.