TCA 39-14-401
Definitions for burglary and related offenses
PENDINGUnknown
What does this charge mean?
This section defines key terms used in burglary laws. A "habitation" is any structure designed for overnight sleeping, including houses, mobile homes, tents, RVs, and connected buildings or structures. "Occupied" means someone is lawfully present inside while the defendant is there. "Owner" means someone with legal possession or control of the property, but does not include people who have been legally barred from the property by a court order.
Penalty Details
ClassificationUnknown
Penalty SummaryClassification not specified
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) “Habitation”: (A) Means any structure, including buildings, module units, mobile homes, trailers, and tents, which is designed or adapted for the overnight accommodation of persons; (B) Includes a self-propelled vehicle that is designed or adapted for the overnight accommodation of persons and is actually occupied at the time of initial entry by the defendant; and (C) Includes each separately secured or occupied portion of the structure or vehicle and each structure appurtenant to or connected with the structure or vehicle; (2) “Occupied” means the condition of the lawful physical presence of any person at any time while the defendant is within the habitation or other building; and (3) “Owner” means a person in lawful possession of property whether the possession is actual or constructive. “Owner” does not include a person, who is restrained from the property or habitation by a valid court order or order of protection, other than an ex parte order of protection, obtained by the person maintaining residence on the property.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
PENDING
TCA Section39-14-401