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 Arkansas, 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 the state's criminal statutes for harassment or disorderly conduct. Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-71-208 defines harassment as engaging in conduct that alarms or seriously annoys another person without a legitimate purpose. This can include communication that threatens to cause injury or property damage. Additionally, local noise ordinances may address disruptive noises, especially at night. If the conduct is threatening or abusive, it may also be considered stalking under Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-71-229, which is a more serious offense. Victims can contact the police for immediate assistance, especially in emergencies. For ongoing issues, victims may seek a civil restraining order, also known as an order of protection, under Arkansas Code Annotated § 9-15-201 to prevent further harassment. It's important to document incidents and seek legal advice from an attorney to understand the specific legal remedies available based on the circumstances.