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 Massachusetts, 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 threatening, such as loud noises or minor disturbances, it is often recommended to first attempt to resolve the issue through direct communication with the neighbor. If the behavior escalates to threatening, abusive, or criminal conduct, such as stalking, trespassing, or property damage, Massachusetts law allows for police intervention and the possibility of criminal charges. In cases where there is a pattern of harassment or fear for one's safety, individuals may seek a harassment prevention order under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 258E. This civil order can be obtained from the courts and is designed to provide protection by ordering the neighbor to refrain from harassment and stay away from the victim. For noise-specific complaints, local ordinances should be consulted as they vary by city and town, and often outline acceptable noise levels and times. If the harassment involves discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, familial status, or disability, it may also be addressed under fair housing laws. In any case, it is advisable to document the incidents and seek the advice of an attorney to explore legal options.