Legal Definitions - building

In legal terms, a building generally refers to a constructed structure that has walls and a roof, and is typically intended to be permanent. However, for specific legal purposes, especially within certain criminal laws like those concerning burglary or arson, the definition can expand to include other enclosed spaces that might not fit the everyday understanding of a building.

• Example 1: A developer completes construction of a new multi-story office tower in a city center.

  Explanation: This office tower clearly fits the common and legal definition of a building, possessing permanent walls, a roof, and a fixed location.

• Example 2: An individual is caught breaking into a locked commercial truck parked overnight in a loading dock area, intending to steal its contents.

  Explanation: While a truck is not typically considered a "building" in daily conversation, many criminal statutes, such as those for burglary, broaden the definition to include enclosed vehicles like this truck to protect property within them from unlawful entry.

• Example 3: Someone sets fire to an unoccupied houseboat permanently moored at a private dock, causing significant damage.

  Explanation: In the context of arson laws, a watercraft like this houseboat, especially one used as a dwelling or for storage and relatively stationary, can be legally classified as a "building" to ensure that acts of destruction against such property are prosecuted appropriately.

An accessory building is a secondary structure located on the same property as a main building, designed to complement or serve the primary structure rather than being a standalone principal building itself. These structures are often the subject of local zoning regulations.

• Example 1: A homeowner constructs a detached workshop in their backyard, separate from their main house, where they pursue woodworking as a hobby.

  Explanation: This workshop is an accessory building because it is distinct from the primary residence but serves a purpose related to the property's use, providing additional functional space for the homeowner.

• Example 2: A large estate includes a small, separate guesthouse that is used exclusively for visitors and does not have its own separate address or utilities from the main residence.

  Explanation: The guesthouse functions as an accessory building, supporting the main dwelling by providing additional accommodation for guests without being considered a primary residence itself.

• Example 3: A farm property features a large barn used for storing hay and housing livestock, located a short distance from the main farmhouse.

  Explanation: The barn is an accessory building because its function directly supports the agricultural activities associated with the main farmhouse and the overall farm operation.