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 Utah, harassment by neighbors is addressed under various laws depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. For non-criminal behavior that is annoying but not abusive, such as loud noises or minor disputes, residents are encouraged to attempt resolution through direct communication. However, when the behavior escalates to threatening, abusive, or criminal conduct, such as stalking, trespassing, or property damage, legal remedies become available. Utah's criminal statutes may apply, and individuals can contact law enforcement for assistance. In cases of emergency, dialing 911 is appropriate. Additionally, Utah's civil courts can provide relief through restraining orders or injunctions to prevent harassment or abuse. Noise ordinances are typically enforced at the city or county level, and violations can be reported to local law enforcement or code enforcement agencies. It's important to document incidents of harassment and seek the advice of an attorney if considering legal action.