### Question
How does the law define arson?


### Answer
Under *18 U.S.C. § 3559*, **arson** is defined as:

> an offense that has as its elements maliciously damaging or destroying any building, inhabited structure, vehicle, vessel, or real property by means of fire or an explosive

#### Citation:
  - *18 U.S.C. § 3559*
  - Heading: **PART II-CRIMINAL PROCEDURE > CHAPTER 227-SENTENCES > SUBCHAPTER A-GENERAL PROVISIONS**

