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 Wisconsin, burglary is defined under Wisconsin Statute 943.10. The law has indeed broadened the traditional definition of burglary. It is considered burglary to intentionally enter any building, dwelling, locked or enclosed cargo portion of a truck, or room within any of these without the consent of the person in lawful possession and with intent to steal or commit a felony therein. Wisconsin law does not require 'breaking' as a necessary element; mere entry without consent with the intent to commit a crime suffices. Additionally, Wisconsin has separate statutes for criminal damage to property (943.01) and for entry into a locked vehicle (943.11) which address situations akin to breaking and entering. Forcible entry into other property like an automobile, safe, ATM, parking meter, or vending machine could fall under these or other related statutes, depending on the specifics of the act and the intent of the perpetrator.