Arson: penalties in each state and country
Deliberately setting fire to a building or other property. Setting fire to a building where people are present is usually the most serious degree.
What to look for: The degrees often turn on whether anyone was inside.
These are statutory ranges for a first offence, from the least to the most the law allows. A court decides the actual sentence in each case. Not legal advice.
34 states covered so far
Alabama
Up to one year (third degree) up to life or 99 years, and not less than 20 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the third degree (Class A misdemeanor)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year in the county jail or at hard labour for the county
Arson in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $30,000, or twice the gain or loss
Arson in the first degree (intentionally damaging a building while another person is present, knowing it or where it is a reasonable possibility) (Class A felony)
- Least
- 20 years (mandatory minimum)
- Most
- Life imprisonment or up to 99 years
- Fine
- Up to $60,000, or twice the gain or loss
The sentence must be not less than 20 years, and must run consecutively with any other sentence for an offence arising out of the same facts.
Alaska
Up to 10 years (second degree) up to 20 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $100,000
Presumptive range for a first felony conviction: 1 to 3 years (higher in some listed circumstances). The court may adjust it under AS 12.55.155 to 12.55.175.
Arson in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $250,000
Presumptive range for a first felony conviction: 4 to 7 years (7 to 11 years if a firearm or dangerous instrument was used or serious physical injury or death was caused). The court may adjust it under AS 12.55.155 to 12.55.175.
Arizona
1 to 3.75 years (a structure) up to 3 to 12.5 years (an occupied structure)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson of a structure (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3.75 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 2.5 years, between 1.5 and 3 years; 1 year if mitigated and 3.75 years if aggravated (§ 13-702). Arson of property (not a structure) is a lesser felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the value (§ 13-1703).
Arson of an occupied structure (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12.5 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 5 years, between 4 and 10 years; 3 years if the court finds mitigating factors and 12.5 years if it finds aggravating factors (§ 13-702).
California
16 months to 3 years (property) up to 5 to 9 years (causing great bodily injury)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson of property (Felony)
- Least
- 16 months
- Most
- 3 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 16 months, 2 years or 3 years. The court chooses among them.
Arson of a structure or forest land (Felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 2, 4 or 6. The court chooses among them.
Arson that causes an inhabited structure or property to burn (Felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 8 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 3, 5 or 8. The court chooses among them.
Arson that causes great bodily injury (Felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 9 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 5, 7 or 9. The court chooses among them.
Colorado
A class 4 felony (building) or a class 3 felony (occupied structure) for first degree; by value for second degree
Show the degrees and the statutes
First-degree arson of a building (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- $2,000 to $500,000
First-degree arson of an occupied structure (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 12 years
- Fine
- $3,000 to $750,000
Second-degree arson, by value of the property: $2,000 to under $5,000 (class 6), up to $1,000,000 or more (class 2) (Class 6 felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 18 months
- Fine
- $1,000 to $100,000
The class rises with the value: class 5 for $5,000 to under $20,000, class 4 for $20,000 to under $100,000, class 3 for $100,000 to under $1,000,000, and class 2 for $1,000,000 or more. Below $2,000 it is a misdemeanor or a petty offense.
Connecticut
A class A felony (arson in the first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Up to $20,000
Delaware
Up to 8 years (second degree) up to 15 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the second degree (Class D felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 8 years
Arson in the first degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Florida
Up to 15 years (second degree) up to 30 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the second degree (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 15 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Arson in the first degree (a dwelling, or a structure the person knew or had reason to believe was occupied) (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 30 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Idaho
Up to 15 years and a fine of up to $75,000 (second degree); up to 25 years and $100,000 (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the second degree: wilfully and unlawfully damaging by fire or explosion any structure not covered by first-degree arson (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $75,000, or both
Arson in the first degree: damaging by fire or explosion a dwelling, or a structure in which persons are normally present (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Up to $100,000, or both
Illinois
A Class 2 felony; a Class 1 felony for residential arson or arson of a place of worship
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
Residential arson, or arson of a place of worship (Class 1 felony)
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
Iowa
Up to 2 years (third degree) to up to 25 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the third degree (Aggravated misdemeanor)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 2 years
- Fine
- Fine of $855 to $8,540
Arson in the second degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of $1,370 to $13,660
Arson in the first degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 25 years
Where one or more people are present in the structure. Parole is not possible until between one-half and seven-tenths of the term is served (§ 902.12).
Maine
Up to 30 years (Class A)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson (Class A crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $50,000
Arson is always a Class A crime in Maine (§ 802).
Maryland
Up to 5 years (malicious burning) up to 30 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Malicious burning in the first degree (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 5 years, and a fine of up to $5,000, or both
- Fine
- Fine of up to $5,000
Arson in the second degree (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 20 years, and a fine of up to $30,000, or both
- Fine
- Fine of up to $30,000
Arson in the first degree (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 30 years, and a fine of up to $50,000, or both
- Fine
- Fine of up to $50,000
Massachusetts
Up to 20 years (dwelling house); the burning of other buildings and property is a separate, lower offence
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson of a dwelling house: wilfully and maliciously setting fire to or burning a dwelling house or an adjoining building (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Or a fine, or up to 2 and a half years in a jail or house of correction
Burning a dwelling house or an adjoining building (ch. 266, § 1) carries up to 20 years in state prison, or up to 2 and a half years in a jail or house of correction, or a fine. Burning other buildings (ch. 266, § 2) is a separate offence, which was not read in full.
Michigan
Up to 10 years (third degree); up to 20 years (second degree); life or any term of years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Third-degree arson (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $20,000, or 3 times the value of the property damaged or destroyed, or both
Second-degree arson (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $20,000, or 3 times the value of the property damaged or destroyed, or both
First-degree arson (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Up to $20,000, or 3 times the value of the property damaged or destroyed, or both
The court may impose life or any term of years.
Minnesota
Up to 5 years (third degree) up to 20 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the third degree (damage to property worth $300 or more, but less than $1,000) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $10,000
Arson in the second degree (a building not used as a dwelling, or other property worth more than $1,000) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Arson in the first degree (a dwelling, or a listed building) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Missouri
A class B felony (first degree), a class A felony where serious physical injury results
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the first degree: damaging a building or inhabitable structure by fire or explosion when a person is present or nearby and in danger (Class B felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
The offence is a class B felony unless a person has suffered serious injury, as the section provides.
Montana
Up to 20 years and a fine of up to $50,000 (arson); up to 6 months or 10 years (negligent arson)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Negligent arson, where another person is placed in danger of death or bodily injury (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, or both
Negligent arson that places only property in danger is a misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $500 or up to 6 months in the county jail.
Arson (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, or both
Nebraska
A Class II felony (first degree): 1 to 50 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the first degree: damaging a building by fire or explosion in listed dangerous circumstances (Class II felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 50 years
Nevada
A category D felony (third and fourth degree) up to 2 to 15 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the third degree (setting fire to property such as crops, grass or vegetation not one's own) (Category D felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 4 years
- Fine
- Up to $5,000
Arson in the second degree (a building or structure) (Category B felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $10,000, in addition
Arson in the first degree (burning an inhabited structure or one where persons are present) (Category B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $15,000, in addition
New Hampshire
A class B felony (up to 7 years) up to a class A felony (up to 15 years)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson of property of another (class B forms) (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
Arson of an occupied structure that the actor knew was occupied, or of a historic structure (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
New York
Up to 4 years (fourth degree) up to life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the fourth degree (Class E felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 4 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
A non-violent felony carries an indeterminate sentence. The court sets the maximum, and the minimum is at least 1 year and no more than one-third of the maximum (§ 70.00).
Arson in the third degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
A non-violent felony carries an indeterminate sentence. The court sets the maximum, and the minimum is at least 1 year and no more than one-third of the maximum (§ 70.00).
Arson in the second degree (a person other than the defendant is present) (Class B violent felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
Arson in the first degree (Class A-I felony)
- Least
- A life sentence with a minimum of at least 15 years
- Most
- Life, with a minimum of up to 25 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
North Carolina
Class E (unoccupied dwelling) up to Class D (occupied dwelling)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the second degree (burning an unoccupied dwelling) (Class E felony)
- Least
- 15 months (1 year 3 months)
- Most
- 50 months (4 years 2 months)
- Fine
- Fine in the court's discretion, in addition to imprisonment
Prior Record Level I: the minimum term runs from 15 to 31 months (mitigated 15 to 20, presumptive 20 to 25, aggravated 25 to 31). The maximum is 50 months where the minimum is 31 (G.S. 15A-1340.17(e)). The chart allows an intermediate or active punishment at this level.
Arson in the first degree (burning an occupied dwelling) (Class D felony)
- Least
- 38 months (3 years 2 months)
- Most
- 108 months (9 years)
- Fine
- Fine in the court's discretion, in addition to imprisonment
Prior Record Level I: the minimum term runs from 38 to 80 months (mitigated 38 to 51, presumptive 51 to 64, aggravated 64 to 80). The maximum is 108 months where the minimum is 80 (G.S. 15A-1340.17(e)). Active prison is required.
North Dakota
A class A misdemeanor (failing to control a fire) up to 10 years (class B)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Failing to report or control a fire that endangers life or a substantial amount of another's property (Class A misdemeanor)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 360 days
- Fine
- A fine of up to $3,000
Reckless endangerment by fire or explosion (class C, or class B where the actor places another in danger of death under circumstances showing extreme indifference to the value of human life) (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $10,000
The section makes it a class B felony in the extreme-indifference case, a class B maximum of 10 years.
Arson (starting or maintaining a fire, or causing an explosion, with intent to destroy a listed kind of property) (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Ohio
Misdemeanor of the first degree up to felony of the first degree (aggravated arson)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson causing physical harm to property of $1,000 or more (the lowest felony form) (Felony of the fourth degree)
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 18 months
- Fine
- Up to $5,000
Arson, in the third-degree forms of R.C. 2909.03(D) (Felony of the third degree)
- Least
- 9 months
- Most
- 36 months (60 months for some listed offences)
- Fine
- Up to $10,000
Aggravated arson under division (A)(2) (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 12 years (an 8 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $15,000
Aggravated arson under division (A)(1) or (3) (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 3 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 16 years 6 months (an 11 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $20,000
Pennsylvania
A felony of the first degree
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson endangering persons: intentionally starting a fire or explosion with the purpose of destroying a building or occupied structure, or where there is a risk of death or bodily injury (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
Aggravated arson (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
Rhode Island
At least 5 years, up to life (first degree); at least 20 years if a death results
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the first degree: knowingly causing, by fire or explosion, a substantial risk of serious physical harm to any person or damage to an occupied or in-use building (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine of $3,000 to $25,000 may be imposed instead, or both
Where a death occurs as a direct result of the fire or explosion, the minimum is 20 years. A judge may impose less than the minimum only on finding substantial and compelling circumstances.
South Carolina
Up to 15 years (third degree) up to at least 30 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the third degree (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Arson in the second degree (a dwelling house, church and other listed buildings) (Felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 25 years
Arson in the first degree (a burning that results in death or serious bodily injury) (Felony)
- Least
- 30 years
- Most
- No maximum stated in the section
The section sets no maximum for first-degree arson, only a minimum of 30 years.
South Dakota
Up to 10 years (second degree, reckless burning) up to 25 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Second degree arson (intent to destroy an unoccupied structure of another, or to destroy property for insurance) (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of $20,000 may be added
Reckless burning or exploding (recklessly endangering a person or another's building) (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of $20,000 may be added
First degree arson (intent to destroy an occupied structure of another) (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- A fine of $50,000 may be added
Texas
180 days to 2 years (certain lower forms) up to 5 to 99 years, or life
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in its lower forms (State jail felony)
- Least
- 180 days in a state jail
- Most
- 2 years in a state jail
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
A state jail felony under § 28.02(e) and (f). In some forms it rises to a third-degree felony if bodily injury or death results.
Arson (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Arson, in the circumstances listed in § 28.02(d) (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 99 years, or life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
A first-degree felony where the facts listed in § 28.02(d) are shown at trial.
Vermont
1 to 5 years (second degree) up to 2 to 10 years (first degree); first-degree murder if a death results
Show the degrees and the statutes
Second-degree arson: burning any other building or structure (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- Up to $1,000, or both
First-degree arson: burning a dwelling house, whether occupied, unoccupied or vacant, and its outbuildings (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $2,000, or both
A person who burns a building so that someone's life is lost is guilty of murder in the first degree (§ 501).
Virginia
2 to 10 years (unoccupied building) up to life (an occupied dwelling)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson of an unoccupied building (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Burning a public building while people are inside (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Arson of a dwelling house or other occupied place (Felony (term set by the statute))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Washington
Up to 364 days (reckless burning, second degree) up to life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Reckless burning in the second degree (Gross misdemeanor)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Fine
- Fine of up to $5,000
Reckless burning in the first degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 5 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Arson in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $20,000
Arson in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to $50,000
West Virginia
2 to 20 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Arson in the first degree: wilfully and maliciously burning, or causing to be burned, a dwelling or outbuilding, whether occupied, unoccupied or vacant (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
31 countries covered so far
Country codes name the same acts differently, so each entry says which offence is the closest match. Ranges are from the code’s own text.
Algeria
5 to 10 years (own property, to harm others) up to life (a home); death if someone dies
Show the degrees and the articles
Setting fire to one's own property in order to harm another person (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' réclusion
Setting fire to another's unoccupied building, vehicle, forest, crops and similar property (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years' réclusion
Setting fire to an occupied building or home, or to a vehicle or train carrying people; or to State property (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
Arson that causes the death of one or more people (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death
Where the fire causes wounds or permanent infirmity, the penalty is life imprisonment.
Argentina
3 to 10 years (common danger to property) up to 8 to 20 years (arson that causes death)
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Fire, explosion or flooding creating a common danger to property (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Fire, explosion or flooding creating a danger of death to a person (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 15 years
Fire, explosion or flooding that is the immediate cause of a person's death (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 20 years
Austria
Up to 1 year (negligent fire) up to 1 to 10 years (Brandstiftung), 10 to 20 years where many die
Show the degrees and the articles
Fahrlässige Herbeiführung einer Feuersbrunst (negligently causing a large fire) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year
- Fine
- A fine in daily rates may be imposed instead of prison
Up to 3 years where death or serious injuries result (§ 170(2))
Brandstiftung (causing a large fire in another's property without the owner's consent, or endangering life or others' property) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Brandstiftung with the death of a person or serious injuries to many, or great distress to many (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
10 to 20 years where the deaths of many people result.
Brazil
6 months to 2 years (negligent fire) up to 3 to 6 years (arson), raised by a third for a home, and doubled where death results
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Incêndio culposo (negligent fire) (Detenção (the lighter kind of prison))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 2 years
Incêndio (causing a fire that endangers life, physical integrity or another's property) (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 6 years
The penalty is increased by one third where the fire is set for gain, or in an inhabited house, a public building, a vehicle carrying people, a factory, a forest or farmland, and in other listed places.
Incêndio where grievous bodily harm results (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- The penalty of article 250, increased by half
Where death results, the penalty is doubled.
Bulgaria
1 to 8 years (arson); 3 to 10 years (danger to life or other property); 5 to 15 years (death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Arson (палеж): setting fire to a building, stock, crops, forest, machinery or other property of significant value (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 8 years
Arson that endangered someone's life, threatened to spread to other property, or burned property of historical, scientific or similar value (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Arson causing significant damage (3 to 12 years), or causing someone's death without intent (5 to 15 years) (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
The range is 3 to 12 years where significant damage resulted, and 5 to 15 years where a death resulted that the offender did not intend or foresee.
Canada
Up to 14 years (damage to property) or life (disregard for human life)
Show the degrees and the articles
Arson causing damage to property not wholly owned by the offender (Indictable offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 14 years
Arson with disregard for human life (property known or thought to be inhabited or occupied, or the fire causes bodily harm) (Indictable offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
China
3 to 10 years (arson that endangers public safety) up to death (causing serious injury, death or heavy loss)
Show the degrees and the articles
Negligent arson, in relatively minor circumstances (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 3 years' fixed-term imprisonment, or criminal detention
Negligent arson (过失放火) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 7 years' fixed-term imprisonment
Arson and other dangerous methods that endanger public safety, with no serious consequences yet (放火罪) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years' fixed-term imprisonment
Arson causing serious injury, death or heavy loss of property (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 10 years (if a fixed term is chosen)
- Most
- Death, or life imprisonment, or fixed-term imprisonment of 15 years
China punishes arson as a crime against public safety (放火罪, art. 114 and 115): setting fire, flooding, exploding or poisoning, or using other dangerous methods. Setting fire to one's own or another's property with no danger to the public is a different crime (damage to property, art. 275), not shown here.
Croatia
6 months to 5 years (endangering life or property by fire or other means)
Show the degrees and the articles
Endangering life and property by a generally dangerous act or means, such as fire (dovođenje u opasnost života i imovine općeopasnom radnjom ili sredstvom) (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 5 years
Croatia has no offence called arson in the sections read. Setting a fire that endangers people's life or body, or property of a larger extent, is endangering life and property by a generally dangerous act or means (art. 215). Causing it by negligence carries up to 3 years (art. 215(3)).
Czechia
3 to 8 years (causing a general danger, such as by fire); up to 20 years or an exceptional sentence if death results
Show the degrees and the articles
Intentionally causing a general danger (for example, by causing a fire or flood or by explosives) (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 8 years
Causing a general danger as part of an organised group, repeatedly, or causing large-scale damage, among others (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 15 years
Causing a general danger that intentionally causes death, or in a state of national emergency or war (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 12 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment (exceptional sentence)
The range is 12 to 20 years or an exceptional sentence.
The Code has no offence called arson. Causing a fire that puts people in danger of death or serious harm, or another's property in danger of large-scale damage, is the offence of causing a general danger (obecné ohrožení, s. 272).
England and Wales
Up to 10 years (criminal damage) or life (arson, or damage endangering life)
Show the degrees and the articles
Criminal damage (without fire) (Indictable or either-way offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years' imprisonment
Arson (criminal damage by fire), and criminal damage with intent to endanger life or being reckless as to it (Indictable or either-way offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The Sentencing Council's guideline for arson and criminal damage by fire is at https://sentencingcouncil.org.uk/guidelines/arson-criminal-damage-by-fire/
Finland
4 months to 4 years (destructive offence, including starting a fire); 2 to 10 years (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Destructive offence (tuhotyö), including starting a fire (Offence)
- Least
- 4 months
- Most
- 4 years
Aggravated destructive offence (törkeä tuhotyö) (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
Finland's offence of tuhotyö ('destructive offence') covers starting a fire, causing an explosion and other means of widespread destruction. Aggravated tuhotyö applies where the offence is also aggravated when assessed as a whole.
France
Up to 1 year (fire by negligence) up to life (fire causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Destruction by fire or explosion caused by negligence (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year's imprisonment (2 years where a safety rule was deliberately and manifestly violated)
- Fine
- Fine of up to €15,000 (€30,000 for the deliberate violation)
Destruction of another's property by fire or explosion, in a way that endangers people (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years' imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
The same, causing incapacity of 8 days or less (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years' criminal imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
The same, by an organised gang, or causing incapacity of more than 8 days (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years' criminal imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
The same, causing mutilation or permanent disability (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years' criminal imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
The same, causing death (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
Fires in woods, forests and similar land carry heavier maximums than the figures shown, which are for buildings and other property.
Germany
1 to 10 years (arson) up to life or at least 10 years (arson causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Brandstiftung (arson of buildings, vehicles, forests, farm and other listed property of another) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Less serious cases: 6 months to 5 years.
Schwere Brandstiftung (arson of a building or premises that serve to accommodate people) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Less serious cases: 6 months to 5 years.
Besonders schwere Brandstiftung (arson causing serious damage to health) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Besonders schwere Brandstiftung (arson endangering life, to cover another offence, or obstructing extinguishing) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Brandstiftung mit Todesfolge (arson at least recklessly causing death) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Or life imprisonment.
Hungary
2 to 8 years (causing public danger) up to 20 years or life (if death results)
Show the degrees and the articles
Causing public danger (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8 years
Causing public danger, committed in a group, causing particularly great damage, or in a criminal association (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years
Causing public danger, causing death (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The range is 5 to 20 years or life.
Hungary has no offence called arson. Starting a fire that endangers the public is the offence of causing public danger (közveszély okozása): bringing about public danger by setting off the destructive effect of a material or of energy, or hindering the removal of the danger. Setting a fire to damage another's property is covered by other offences that were not read for this table. Causing public danger by negligence is a separate, lower offence (s. 322(5): up to 3 years, and more if the damage is particularly great or death results).
Iceland
At least 6 months (fire creating public danger); at least 2 years if danger to life or extensive destruction was foreseen
Show the degrees and the articles
Causing a fire that creates a public danger (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- No maximum stated in the article
The article states only a minimum. Any maximum would come from the Code's general rules on terms of imprisonment, which were not read.
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 164
The same, where the offender foresaw obvious danger to life or obvious danger of extensive destruction of others' property (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- No maximum stated in the article
The article states only a minimum.
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 164
Iceland has no offence called arson. Causing a fire that creates a public danger is punished under art. 164: imprisonment of at least six months, and not less than two years if the offender foresaw obvious danger to life or obvious danger of extensive destruction of others' property.
India
Up to 7 years (mischief by fire) up to life or 10 years (a dwelling or place of worship)
Show the degrees and the articles
Mischief by fire or an explosive substance, intending or knowing it likely to damage property (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' imprisonment of either description
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Mischief by fire or an explosive substance, intending or knowing it likely to destroy a place of worship, a human dwelling or a place for the custody of property (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment of either description for up to 10 years
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
The Sanhita punishes arson as 'mischief by fire or any explosive substance'. The penalty depends on what is burned.
Ireland
Up to 10 years (damage by fire); up to imprisonment for life (arson)
Show the degrees and the articles
Criminal damage (other than arson or damage endangering life) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine, with or without imprisonment
Arson, or damage that endangers life (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
- Fine
- A fine, with or without imprisonment
Arson is damaging property by fire. The Criminal Damage Act 1991, s. 2, punishes arson, and criminal damage that endangers life, with a fine, imprisonment for life or both on indictment. Damaging property by other means is a lesser offence in s. 2 with up to 10 years. On summary conviction the maximum is 12 months or a fine.
Italy
6 months to 2 years (setting fire to damage) up to 3 to 7 years (incendio), 6 to 10 years (forest fires)
Show the degrees and the articles
Danneggiamento seguito da incendio (setting fire to damage a thing, causing danger of a fire) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 2 years
If a fire follows, the penalty of art. 423 applies, reduced by one third to one half.
Incendio colposo (a fire caused by negligence) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 5 years
Incendio (causing a fire) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 7 years
Incendio boschivo (a fire in woods, forests or nurseries) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 10 years
2 to 5 years where caused by negligence.
Japan
6 months to 7 years (own property) up to death, life, or 5 years or more (an inhabited building)
Show the degrees and the articles
Arson of one's own unoccupied building, ship or mine, creating public danger (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 7 years
Arson of other objects, creating a public danger (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Arson of an unoccupied building, ship or mine that belongs to another (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 12)
Arson of a building, train, ship or mine used as a dwelling or with people in it (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 5 years (if a fixed term is chosen)
- Most
- Death, life imprisonment, or a fixed term of 20 years
Japan grades arson by what is burned: a building where people live or are present, a building where no one is, or other things. Burning one's own property is punished less.
Morocco
5 to 10 years up to death (an inhabited place, or where someone dies)
Show the degrees and the articles
Setting fire to one's own property to harm another person (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' réclusion
Setting fire to another's unoccupied building, vehicle, forest, crops and similar property (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years' réclusion
Setting fire to an occupied building or home, or to a vehicle or train carrying people (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death
Arson that causes the death of one or more people (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death
Where the fire causes wounds or permanent infirmity, the penalty is life imprisonment.
Netherlands
6 months (a fire by fault) up to life or 30 years (a fire that causes death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Brandstichting by fault (negligent fire), with danger to property (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 6 months' prison
1 year where it causes danger to life or serious injury, and 2 years where it causes death (art. 158(2), (3)).
Opzettelijke brandstichting (intentional arson) where danger to property is to be feared (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 12 years' prison
Opzettelijke brandstichting where danger to life or of serious injury to others is to be feared (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years' prison
Opzettelijke brandstichting where danger to life is to be feared and a person dies (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment, or up to 30 years
Dutch law has one arson offence, 'brandstichting', graded by the danger caused: danger to property, danger to life or serious injury, and death. Negligent fires carry far lower maximums.
New Zealand
Up to 14 years
Show the degrees and the articles
Arson (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 14 years
Arson includes intentionally or recklessly damaging property by fire or explosion where danger to life is likely to ensue, and damaging another's immovable property, vehicle, ship or aircraft without claim of right. Attempted arson is punished with up to 10 years (s. 268).
Norway
A fine or up to 1 year (damage to property); 2 to 15 years (fire endangering life); up to 21 years (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Criminal damage (skadeverk) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year
- Fine
- Or a fine (bot)
Aggravated criminal damage (grovt skadeverk) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- Or a fine (bot)
Endangering the public by fire, explosion, flooding or similar, where it could easily cause loss of life (fremkalling av fare for allmennheten) (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years
Aggravated endangering of the public (grov fremkalling av fare for allmennheten); loss of life is among the factors (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 21 years
Norway has no separate offence of arson. A fire set to damage property is criminal damage (skadeverk). A fire that could easily cost lives falls under endangering the public (s. 355), and the aggravated form applies where lives are lost (s. 355 a).
Portugal
3 to 10 years (a significant fire creating danger); up to 5 years or 1 to 8 years where negligent
Show the degrees and the articles
Causing a significant fire by negligence (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
Creating the danger by negligence (the fire itself being intended) (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 8 years
Causing a significant fire and thereby creating danger to life, physical integrity or valuable property (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Portugal has no offence called arson. The offence is causing a significant fire, for example by setting fire to a building, structure or means of transport, and thereby creating danger to life, to the physical integrity of others or to another's property of high value (art. 272).
Russia
Up to 2 years (destruction of property) up to 5 years (by arson or another dangerous means)
Show the degrees and the articles
Intentional destruction or damage of another's property causing significant damage (Crime of small gravity)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 2 years' imprisonment (the court may choose a fine, compulsory work, corrective labour, forced labour or arrest instead)
The same, by arson, explosion or another generally dangerous means, or causing death or other grave consequences by negligence (Crime of medium gravity)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years' imprisonment (or forced labour for up to 5 years)
Russia has no separate offence of arson. Setting a fire is punished as intentional destruction of property, with a higher maximum when it is done by arson or another means dangerous to many people. A fire set on purpose to kill is murder (Art. 105(2)).
South Korea
Up to 3 years (burning one's own property) up to death (burning an occupied building and causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Burning one's own property in a way that endangers the public (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Or a fine of up to 10 million won
Burning other property so as to endanger the public (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Burning a building, train, vehicle, ship or aircraft that is not a dwelling or public property (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 30 years (the maximum for a term of imprisonment)
Burning a public building or a building used for the public benefit (Offence)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Life imprisonment, or a term of at least three years.
Burning a building where people live or are present (Offence)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Life imprisonment, or a term of at least three years.
Burning a building where people live or are present, causing injury (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Life imprisonment, or a term of at least five years.
Burning a building where people live or are present, causing death (Offence)
- Least
- 7 years (the alternatives are death or life imprisonment)
- Most
- Death
Death, life imprisonment, or a term of at least seven years.
Spain
1 to 3 years (damage by fire) up to 10 to 20 years (a fire endangering life)
Show the degrees and the articles
Daños por incendio (damage by fire or explosion) (Pena menos grave (prison of 3 months to 5 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3 years
Incendio forestal (burning woods or forest land) (Pena menos grave (prison of 3 months to 5 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- Fine of 12 to 18 months
Incendio forestal of especial gravedad (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- Fine of 18 to 24 months
Incendio causing danger to the life or physical integrity of people (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years
The court may impose a lower penalty where the danger was small.
Sweden
1 to 3 years (a less serious mordbrand) up to 6 to 18 years or life (grov mordbrand)
Show the degrees and the articles
Mordbrand, less serious (a less serious arson) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3 years
Mordbrand (arson) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8 years
Grov mordbrand (gross arson: for example, in a built-up area where the fire could easily spread, or danger to several people) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 6 years (a fixed term of 6 to 18 years)
- Most
- Life imprisonment (livstid)
'Mordbrand' (arson) is setting a fire that endangers another's life or health or causes extensive destruction of another's property. It is the offence the scale below applies to.
Switzerland
At least 1 year (Brandstiftung), at least 3 years where life is endangered knowingly
Show the degrees and the articles
Fahrlässige Verursachung einer Feuersbrunst (causing a fire by negligence) (Vergehen (misdemeanour: up to 3 years or a fine))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 1 year
- Fine
- A fine (Geldstrafe) may be imposed instead of prison
Up to 3 years or a fine if life or limb is endangered by negligence (art. 222(2)).
Brandstiftung (intentionally causing a fire to another's detriment or creating a public danger) (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Brandstiftung where the offender knowingly endangers the life and limb of people (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Where only slight damage results, Switzerland allows up to 3 years or a fine (art. 221(3)).
Taiwan
1 to 7 years (other property, creating public danger); 3 to 10 years (unoccupied building); life or at least 7 years (occupied building)
Show the degrees and the articles
Burning another's property other than a building, creating public danger (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 7 years
Burning another's unoccupied building, vehicle or similar (Offence)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Burning a dwelling in use, or a building, train or vessel where people are present (Offence)
- Least
- 7 years (the alternative is life)
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Turkey
3 months to 1 year (negligent fire) up to 1 to 5 years (fire creating general danger)
Show the degrees and the articles
Taksirle yangına neden olma (causing a fire by negligence, where it is dangerous) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 3 months
- Most
- 1 year
Mala zarar verme (damaging another's property) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 4 months
- Most
- 3 years
- Fine
- A fine may be imposed instead of prison
Or a fine. On the victim's complaint. Where the damage is done by burning or with explosives, the penalty is increased by up to one fold (art. 152(2)).
Yangın çıkarma (starting a fire in a way dangerous to life, health or property, or creating fear or panic) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 5 years
Increased by half where the fire is started in a place where people gather (art. 170(2)).
Turkey has no single arson offence. A fire set to damage property is aggravated damage (art. 152), and one that endangers people is an offence against public safety (art. 170). Killing by fire is aggravated murder (art. 82).
Other states and countries are being added. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
