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 Jersey, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various laws depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. For behaviors that are annoying but not criminal, such as minor noise complaints, residents are encouraged to engage in a polite conversation with their neighbors to resolve the issue. However, when the behavior escalates to threatening, abusive, or criminal conduct, such as stalking, trespassing, or excessive noise that violates local ordinances, legal remedies are available. Victims can contact the police for immediate assistance, especially in emergencies by dialing 911. For ongoing issues, victims may seek a restraining order from the civil courts to prevent further harassment. New Jersey's Prevention of Domestic Violence Act may also apply in certain cases where the harasser and the victim have a qualifying domestic relationship. It's important to document incidents of harassment as they may be required as evidence in legal proceedings. Consulting with an attorney can provide guidance on the appropriate legal response based on the specific circumstances.