Vandalism is generally the damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of tangible public or private property, done with criminal intent (intentionally or knowingly). Vandalism charges often arise from (1) damage to a home or dwelling; (2) damage to a place of business; (3) damage to a motor vehicle; (4) damage to a school; (5) defacement or destruction of public or private property (graffiti, etc.); or (6) tampering with public water, gas, power, or communications.

Vandalism is sometimes classified as criminal mischief or reckless damage or destruction of property under state laws. These laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the penal or criminal code.

In Nevada, vandalism is addressed under the terms 'malicious mischief' or 'destruction of property' and is codified in Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 206. Vandalism includes willful and malicious damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of public or private property. The severity of the charges in Nevada can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the extent of damage and the value of the property affected. For example, if the damage is less than $250, it is treated as a misdemeanor under NRS 206.310. However, if the damage is $250 or more but less than $5,000, it is considered a gross misdemeanor, and if the damage is $5,000 or more, the offense is classified as a category B felony under NRS 206.330. Additionally, specific acts of vandalism, such as graffiti, may carry their own set of penalties and may require restitution and community service. Tampering with public utilities is also a serious offense and is addressed under separate statutes, such as NRS 207.200, which deals with the injury to or tampering with public utility property.