What are the penalties for arson in Canada?
Arson involves intentionally or recklessly causing a fire or explosion which causes damage to property. The
Criminal Code
articulates five distinct offences for arson.
Arson - disregard for human life (s. 433)
When a fire or explosion causes damage to property which is inhabited, or if the fire or explosion causes bodily harm to another person, the accused person is liable to imprisonment for life.
Arson - damage to property
When a fire or explosion causes damage to property which is not wholly owned by the accused, the accused is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding fourteen years.
Arson - own property
When a fire or explosion causes damage to property which is owned by the accused, and the fire or explosion seriously threatens the health, safety or property of another person, the accused is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding fourteen years.
Arson for fraudulent purpose
When a fire or explosion causes damage to property with the intent to defraud any other person, the accused is guilty of either: 1) an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a maximum term of 10 years, or 2) an offence punishable on summary conviction.
Arson by negligence
When a fire or explosion results from a failure to reasonably prevent or control the spread of fires or to prevent explosions, and the fire or explosion causes bodily harm to another person or damage to property, accused is guilty of either 1) an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than five years, or 2) an offence punishable on summary conviction.
