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 Arizona, harassment by neighbors can be addressed through various legal avenues depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. If the behavior is annoying but not abusive or criminal, it is often best to attempt to resolve the issue through direct communication. However, if the conduct is threatening, abusive, or criminal, such as stalking, trespassing, or violating noise ordinances, you can seek assistance from law enforcement. In emergencies, calling 911 is appropriate. For non-emergent but ongoing issues, you may contact local police to file a report. Additionally, victims of harassment in Arizona can seek a restraining order, known as an Injunction Against Harassment, from the civil courts. This legal order requires the neighbor to cease the harassing behavior and can provide legal recourse if the behavior continues. It's important to document incidents of harassment as they may be required as evidence in court. Consulting with an attorney can provide guidance on the appropriate legal response based on the specific circumstances.