Harassment by neighbors can take many forms, including yelling obscenities; loud and disruptive noises (especially at night) from parties, fights, or other activities; threatening or abusive behavior; or damage to your home or yard by pets.

If your neighbor’s behavior is merely annoying and not abusive, threatening, or criminal conduct, you may be able to resolve the issue with a courteous discussion. But if your neighbor’s conduct is threatening, abusive, violates a noise ordinance, or is a criminal offense such as stalking, trespassing, or peeping, for example, you may be able to get assistance from the police (call 911 in an emergency) or from the civil courts in the form of a restraining order.

In Nebraska, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various state statutes and local ordinances. If the behavior includes yelling obscenities, loud noises, threatening or abusive behavior, or damage to property, and it is severe enough to be considered a criminal offense, such as stalking, trespassing, or violating noise ordinances, law enforcement can be involved. Victims can contact the police, especially in emergencies by dialing 911. For non-emergency situations that still require legal intervention, individuals may seek a restraining order or other civil remedies through the courts. It's important to document the harassment and gather any evidence, such as recordings, witness statements, or police reports, to support the case. For conduct that is annoying but not criminal, a direct but courteous conversation with the neighbor may resolve the issue. If the situation does not improve, mediation services or assistance from a community association, if applicable, might be considered before escalating to legal action.