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 Washington State, burglary is defined under RCW 9A.52. Burglary involves entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime against a person or property therein. Washington law recognizes several degrees of burglary, including residential burglary, burglary in the first and second degree, and burglary of a safe, vault, or lockbox. The state has broadened the traditional definition of burglary to include not only breaking and entering but also any unauthorized entry with criminal intent. Additionally, Washington has specific statutes for crimes such as vehicle prowling (RCW 9A.52.095), which criminalizes entering or remaining in a vehicle with the intent to commit a crime. While the state does not have a distinct offense named 'breaking and entering,' the elements of such an offense are generally encompassed within its burglary and related property crime laws.