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 California, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various laws depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. For non-criminal behavior that is annoying but not abusive, such as loud noises or minor disturbances, residents are encouraged to engage in a polite conversation with their neighbor to resolve the issue. However, when the behavior escalates to threatening, abusive, or criminal conduct, such as stalking, trespassing, or violating noise ordinances, legal remedies are available. Victims can contact local law enforcement, and in emergencies, they should call 911. For ongoing issues, individuals may seek a civil harassment restraining order, which requires filing a petition with the court. This order can prohibit the neighbor from continuing the harassing behavior. California's civil code and penal code provide the legal framework for addressing such disputes, ensuring that individuals have recourse to protect their rights and safety.