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 New Mexico, harassment by neighbors can be addressed through various legal avenues depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. For behaviors that are annoying but not threatening, such as loud noises or minor disturbances, a polite conversation is often the best first step. However, if the behavior escalates to threatening, abusive, or criminal conduct, such as stalking, trespassing, or property damage, the situation may require legal intervention. New Mexico has noise ordinances that prohibit excessive noise, especially during nighttime hours, and violations can be reported to local law enforcement. In cases of serious harassment, victims can contact the police for immediate assistance, especially in emergencies by dialing 911. Additionally, victims may seek a civil restraining order, which is a court order that legally requires the harassing neighbor to stop the offending behavior. To obtain a restraining order, the victim must typically provide evidence of the harassment and demonstrate that it has caused harm or significant distress. It's advisable to consult with an attorney to explore the legal options available and to ensure that the appropriate legal steps are taken to address the harassment.