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 Missouri, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various state statutes and local ordinances. If the behavior includes yelling obscenities, loud noises, threatening behavior, or damage to property, it may fall under Missouri's harassment laws, which define harassment as knowingly engaging in a course of conduct that alarms or causes distress to another person and serves no legitimate purpose. This can include communication that frightens, intimidates, or causes emotional distress. If the conduct is severe, it may be considered a criminal offense, and law enforcement can be involved. For non-emergency situations, local noise ordinances typically address loud and disruptive noises, and violations can be reported to local authorities. In cases of stalking, trespassing, or peeping, these are criminal offenses under Missouri law, and police can take action. Additionally, victims of such behaviors can seek civil remedies, such as a restraining order, to prevent further harassment. It's important to document incidents and, if necessary, consult with an attorney to explore legal options for addressing neighbor harassment.