Legal Definitions - arsonable

Arsonable is an adjective used to describe property that, if intentionally and maliciously set on fire, could legally result in a charge of arson. This term specifically applies to fixed structures or land, rather than movable personal belongings.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: An unoccupied commercial warehouse.

  If an individual intentionally sets fire to a large, empty warehouse, they could be charged with arson because the warehouse is a permanent, fixed structure. The building itself is considered arsonableproperty.

• Example 2: A newly constructed residential home.

  Even if a house is still under construction and not yet occupied, it is a fixed structure attached to the land. Therefore, if someone deliberately burns down this new home, they would likely face arson charges, as the house is arsonable property.

• Example 3: A vast agricultural field ready for harvest.

  While not a building, a large field of crops, as a fixed part of the land and its produce, can be considered arsonable. If someone maliciously sets fire to such a field, causing significant damage, they could be charged with arson because the land and its contents are treated as property susceptible to this crime.