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 South Carolina, 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 harassment or stalking laws. South Carolina Code Ann. § 16-3-1700 defines harassment in the second degree as a pattern of intentional, substantial, and unreasonable intrusion into the private life of a targeted person that causes the person to suffer mental or emotional distress. If the conduct is severe, it could be considered stalking, which is a more serious offense under § 16-3-1720. Additionally, local noise ordinances are in place to address disruptive noises, especially during nighttime hours. For non-criminal but annoying behavior, a courteous conversation with the neighbor is recommended. However, if the behavior is threatening, abusive, or criminal, such as trespassing or vandalism, contacting the police is appropriate. In cases of ongoing harassment, victims may seek a restraining order from the civil courts to legally prevent the neighbor from continuing the behavior.