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 Rhode Island, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various state statutes and local ordinances. If the behavior includes yelling obscenities, loud noises, threatening or abusive behavior, or property damage, it may fall under the state's criminal statutes for disorderly conduct, harassment, or vandalism. Rhode Island General Laws § 11-45-1 covers disorderly conduct, which can include loud and disruptive noises that disturb the peace. Harassment, as defined under § 11-52-4.2, involves a pattern of conduct intended to cause emotional distress, and could apply to threatening or abusive behavior. Additionally, local noise ordinances set specific rules for acceptable noise levels, particularly at night. If a neighbor's conduct is threatening or abusive, residents can contact the police, and in emergencies, dial 911. For ongoing issues that are not emergencies, individuals may seek a restraining order from the civil courts to prevent further harassment. This legal remedy requires the individual to demonstrate a pattern of harassing behavior that causes substantial emotional distress or fear of bodily injury.