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 Oklahoma, 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, and it is severe enough to be considered abusive or threatening, it may constitute a criminal offense. Oklahoma has laws against stalking (Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1173), trespassing (Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1835), and peeping (Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1171), which could apply in such situations. Additionally, local noise ordinances are in place to address disruptive noises, especially during nighttime hours. If the conduct is criminal in nature, contacting the police is appropriate, and in emergencies, dialing 911 is necessary. For non-emergent harassment that is severe and ongoing, victims may seek a restraining order, also known as a protective order, from the civil courts to legally prevent the neighbor from continuing the behavior. It's important to document incidents of harassment as they may be required as evidence in court. For less severe cases that do not rise to the level of criminal conduct, a direct but courteous conversation with the neighbor may resolve the issue. If the situation does not improve, mediation services or assistance from an attorney may be considered to address the neighbor dispute.